Rodeo is more than just a sport; it’s a testament to resilience, grit, and unwavering faith.
Rodeo is more than just a sport; it’s a testament to resilience, grit, and unwavering faith. Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with Tilden Hooper, a veteran PRCA bareback rider from Carthage, Texas, whose life story is as inspiring as his rodeo career.
Tilden, now 37, boasts over 18 years in professional rodeo, with multiple qualifications for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR), including a triumphant win at the 2026 Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. Known for his "Texas Tornado" style and resilience after injuries, he’s a top contender and a mentor to younger riders.
Our conversation delved into his childhood, faith journey, and the lessons he's learned along the way.
From Small Town Roots to Big Rodeo DreamsGrowing up in Carthage, Texas, a small town of about 6,500 people, Tilden's childhood was filled with sports—baseball, football, soccer—and a love for the Western lifestyle that sparked his interest in rodeo. Though he didn’t grow up around horses or ranching, his fascination for cowboys and Western stories fueled his passion.He recalls, "I just fell in love with the idea of being a cowboy. I didn't know what that looked like, but I knew I wanted to be one." The turning point came in junior high when he started reading Western novels and watching rodeo movies like "Eight Seconds" and "The Cowboy Way." Inspired by friends involved in rodeo, he convinced his mom to let him ride horses—initially for the hope of scholarships, but ultimately because of his love for the sport.
Faith: A Work in Progress
Tilden’s faith journey is deeply personal and ongoing. Raised in a Christian home, he accepted Christ at age nine, but like many, his relationship with God evolved over the years. He candidly shares, "In high school, I drifted far from that foundation, making mistakes I regret. But I always knew, deep down, that God was tugging at my heart. "For him, faith is about grace, forgiveness, and trusting God's plan—even when the path gets rocky. He emphasizes that his relationship with Christ is continually growing, especially through marriage and fatherhood. “My marriage and kids have taught me more about God's love than anything else,” he says. “They've shown me what it means to love unconditionally and to forgive myself when I fall short. ”Tilden describes his faith as a journey—one that involves prayer, reflection, and daily effort to "monitor his mind and muzzle his mouth," as his grandfather's Bible once prompted him.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Growth
Tilden’s story is a testament to perseverance. He’s faced injuries, doubts, and life's setbacks, but he credits his faith for guiding him through. He shares a powerful insight: "God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called." Whether it’s competing at the highest levels or mentoring younger riders, he prays for guidance and rests in the peace that comes from trusting God's plan. He emphasizes the importance of continual spiritual growth, saying, “We’re all a work in progress, and that’s okay. It’s about becoming more like Christ every day.”
Words of Encouragement
To anyone listening who feels unqualified or overwhelmed, Tilden offers this advice: "Just step out in faith. God will take care of the rest. When you do what He's calling you to, it might not be easy, but it will flow smoothly, and you’ll find peace."His story reminds us that our past mistakes don’t define us—our faith and willingness to change do.
Closing Thoughts
Tilden Hooper’s journey is a beautiful example of how faith, resilience, and love can transform a life. Whether you're in rodeo or any walk of life, his story encourages us to trust in God's plan, embrace growth, and step forward with confidence—knowing we’re never alone.
"God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called."Let that be a reminder to us all as we pursue our passions and walk in faith.
If you'd like to hear more stories of faith and perseverance, stay tuned for more conversations like this.