Twenty-year-old Eric Logan was born and raised in Routt County. A four-time state high school champion, he is a sophomore at Odessa College in Texas, where he is studying ag science. His goal is to work his way up through the Pro Rodeo ranks and make it to the National Finals Rodeo one day.

How old were you when you first attended Steamboat’s rodeo?

I was young enough to do the Ram Scramble, so maybe 6 or even younger. I won it one year. When I was little, I thought I was Sheriff Woody from “Toy Story,” so when I won, I introduced myself to the crowd as Sheriff Woody. I’m still hearing about it.

There are two kids’ events at the Steamboat rodeo: the Ram Scramble and the Calf Scramble. Competitors are determined by age, but the goal in both is the same – to grab a ribbon off the animal’s tail. Any advice on how to do that?

Use your corners. Everybody just chases ‘em; try to trap ‘em instead.

How’d you first learn to ride rodeo?

We raised horses outside of Steamboat, so I had grown up riding my whole life. About the time I could walk, I was probably on a horse. Pretty much about the time I could walk, I had roped everything I could, so it was in my blood from the beginning.

Now that you’ve competed in different arenas, what’s your favorite thing about the Steamboat rodeo?

It’s good competition, it’s close to home and the crowd’s always packed. It’s got a good atmosphere about it. If you’re looking for a good way to spend your Friday or Saturday night, go to the rodeo, and bring the whole family.

What events do you ride?

Bulldog (steer wrestling), team rope and calf rope – the timed events.

Any tips for the audience when they’re watching a rodeo?

Just take it all in. A big thriller is all the rough stock events, especially the saddle bronc riding and the bull-riding. I do find myself walking up and watching the bucking horses.

How do you keep your hat on when you’re rodeoing?

Try to find hats that aren’t too big and screw ‘em down tight on your head.

How important are the rodeo clowns?

They’re very important during a performance because during all the down time, when somebody’s not competing, the rodeo clowns keep the spectators entertained. In the bull riding and bull-fighting, the clowns keep the bull’s attention off the cowboy, so when he gets bucked off, he doesn’t get hurt after that.

What’s your favorite food at Romick Arena?

I don’t get to eat a lot over there when I’m competing, but I do like the root beer floats.