Tinker Cowboy shines at IFR 38

Published Jan. 22, 2008
By John E. Banks
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- Tinker personnel have a myriad of interesting hobbies and events that go beyond the norm. No truer statement can be made about Jeremy Shed of the 564th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. One of his interests outside the gates is bareback riding.
Shed's occupation as a world-class bareback rider came full circle as International Finals Rodeo 38 came calling Jan. 17-19 at the State Fair Arena in Oklahoma City.
   "I thoroughly enjoy this sport," said Shed, a native of Holdenville, Okla. "I have always been around horses and love the thrill and challenge of riding these bucking horses.
   "My work schedule Monday through Thursday keeps me real busy. However, on weekends I jump on a plane and head to the next rodeo. A lot of my co-workers think I am a little crazy."
   Shed has been away from the sport for about eight years due largely in part to injury. But, he decided to climb back on the horse this year and see what he could accomplish.  Shed said he came out of retirement because "I thought I could compete with these young guys and wanted some of the money they were getting."
   Among the highlights of the comeback are setting the arena scoring record on a bucking horse at the Dayton, Ohio, rodeo and qualifying for this year's IFR. He also captured the bareback title at the Dayton and Pauls Valley, Okla., rodeos.
   In the first go round at IFR 38, Shed posted a score of 78.0, which placed him in the top 10 and gave him a chance of capturing the title.
   The second go round was the highlight for Shed at this year's rodeo. He drew "Heaven Can Wait" - a three-time Bucking Horse of the Year and one many consider being the best on the tour. Shed beat the best and posted a score of 81.50 to win the second go round.
   "I was definitely ready for this horse," he said. "He came out strong but I was ready, willing and able."
   The next two go rounds were not as successful as the first two. Shed was bucked off both rides and fell to a seventh place finish at IFR 38.
   "In the third go round my hand slipped off the bareback rigging and I lost control of the horse," he said "The fourth go round I had the horse to get a high score, but it just was not to be tonight. I gave it my best shot and I hope all the fans got some enjoyment from my riding during the IFR."