On July 28, 2012, the entire rodeo community was rocked to its core with the unexpected passing of Broc Cresta.
Tribute to Broc Cresta
To truly understand the impact this young man had on so many, one only need to look at the outpouring of support throughout not only the rodeo community in his home State of California, but the rodeo community world-wide - support that still continues just as strong now, one year after his passing. Broc truly had a positive impact on everyone who new him and even those who did not know him personally.
Some say the way to help heal the hurt, is to allow someone's legacy and dreams to live on in others - Thus, the creation of the "Broc Cresta Scholarship Fund".
Private donations, as well as proceeds from organized events, have helped raise monies for this scholarship fund.
One of these events was the "Inaugural Broc Cresta Memorial Team Roping Event" which was organized by Stock Contractor Jeff Davis and was held on April 16, 2013, at the Four Star Rodeo Ranch in Cottonwood, California. This event helped raise about $20,000 for the scholarship fund.
Broc Cresta Memorial Team Roping Saddle (photo courtesy of Rest in Peace Broc Cresta)
From the Social Media Page:
Rest In Peace Broc Cresta 1987-2012
(Link)
Broc Cresta's dream was to become a world champion cowboy, but it was his character, commitment and dedication that made him a champion. "Broc Cresta Scholarship Fund" has been established to help other young adults, accomplish their dreams. With Broc in mind the committee reviewed all of the applications for individual activities, letters of recommendation, and their personal statement on character and how important it has been and will be for them to accomplish their life goals.
The Board of the "Broc Cresta Scholarship Fund", along with Broc's family, announced and congratulated the recipients of the 2013 Broc Cresta Scholarship Fund and thanked all of the scholarship applicants. The recipients of the 2013 Broc Cresta Scholarships are:
Taylor Santos-Karney ($1000 Scholarship)
Katie Rice ($1000 Scholarship)
Kayla Nichol ($500 Scholarship)
Quincy Crum ($500 Scholarship)
Clay Adams ($500 Scholarship)
Jessica Bates ($500 Scholarship)
Tyler Colt Forsberg ($500 Scholarship)
Not surprisingly, the names of these recipients are not unfamiliar to most in the rodeo community, especially in California. These young cowboys and cowgirls have already proven that they possess the personal attributes, as well as the drive and determination, befitting this award. Congratulations to each and every one of you!
For more information about applying for the Broc Cresta Scholarship Fund, or for information about donating to this fund, please email [email protected].
In closing, the following song written by songwriter Allen Shamblin, and sung by Kenny Chesney, was played while Brent Cresta led a riderless horse around a rodeo arena - they said there was not a dry eye to be found. Rest in Peace Broc
It ain't easy
To ever say goodbye
It ain't easy
Lettin' go of the ones you love
But believe me
We'll meet again by and by
If not here
Somewhere up above
Broc Cresta - Photo by PRCA