Athletes Around Moore - Eli Sheffield
Athletes Around Moore - Eli Sheffield
This month’s segment features one of our youngest Moore athletes. Eli Sheffield is a six-year-old sheep rider.
Having grown up in a baseball family, Eli’s mom is still surprised to have a cowboy in the family. After showing interest in the sport for a few years, Eli began Muttin Bustin (sheep riding). “He’s been interested in rodeos for a few years now, after watching the pros on TV and then going to the PBR and the local Carthage rodeo,” said Anna
In January, Eli became a member of the Southeast Junior Bull Riders Association and, most recently, the Carolina Rodeo Company, where he is now trying his hand at pee-wee bull riding. He is also now a member of the Chicken Hill Bucking Bulls. “He’s a brave, tough fella and loves the thrill,” said Anna. “He wants to be like JB Mauney, his bull riding idol.”
When he turns seven, he will go from sheep riding to calves/peewee bulls. The soon-to-be first grader who attends Farm Life Elementary has his mom holding her breath every time the gates open. “I get nervous every time he straps on to the sheep or calf, but he shows the most confidence and isn’t scared a bit,” said Anna. “Most of all, he makes me so proud for doing what makes him happy! And it’s definitely different from most kids his age. But this year we have focused on him doing what he likes, and it’s ok to be different, he’s special! He’s Eli James, our Carthage Cowboy!“
The best part of finishing in first place for Eli is winning money. His mom said he loves it because he gets to spend it on whatever he wants.
In 12 rodeos Eli has competed in this season, he has finished in second place three times and first place five times. He will continue to ride several times per month for the remainder of the year.
Eli also has to honor to compete on a big stage at the YBR Wrangler World Finals in Abilene, Texas, July 29 through August 2. The SJBRA (Southeast Junior Bullriders Association) submitted him for a wild-card selection.
If you would like to help Eli with his competition in Texas, there are several ways to do so.
“We are selling shirts to help support his journey! And have patch sponsorships available! We will place patches on his riding vest! Donations are always welcome! Reach out via email annastylist07@gmail.com, phone/text 910-638-6092.”
Written by Curtis Self.
Featured photo courtesy of Ron Byra PTAPHOTOS.com
