Mio' Ohkitoopi
(Rides Hard)
Youth Rodeo
Events
Barrel Racing
Pole Bending
Breakaway
Breakaway
Roughstock
Bareback
Saddle Bronc
Ranch Broncs
Bulls
Age Divisions:
Tiny-Tot: 6 & under
PeeWee: 7-9 years
Junior: 10-13 years
Senior: 14-18 years
Payton Lane Weatherwax Buckland
Memorial Youth Rodeo
Payton Lane is an inspiration not only to all of us at Hell’s Half, but to everyone who knew him. His unwavering courage, faith, and positive outlook remind us all just how precious each day is. Payton's doctors were consistently amazed at his bravery throughout his treatment. Even while facing such a tough battle, Payton would tell his mother Andrea that once he was done with treatment, he was going to ride a bull. He practiced his bull riding form at the edge of his hospital bed, confidently telling the doctors that he was ready to take on the rodeo. Payton was a true warrior, and he earned the title of an Indian Cowboy: MIO `OHKITOPI - RIDES HARD.
In the summer of 2021, Payton attended a Sundance ceremony on Blackfeet land in Browning, MT. There, he felt the spirits all around him and described the experience as uplifting and powerful. He danced, sang, helped with the lodge, and participated in breaking camp. Payton said he felt renewed with energy, as though he had been given the strength to continue his battle with chemotherapy. In the summer of 2022, Payton returned to the Sundance ceremony, and this time, he was given his Indian name, Mio `Ohkitopi – Rides Hard, by Blackfeet Elder Donald “Donnie” Fish. The name symbolizes Payton’s warrior spirit—always ready for battle, charging forward with confidence and strength. It represents his relentless fight against cancer, just as he faced every challenge in life with the heart of a warrior. Payton’s legacy as Mio `Ohkitopi – Rides Hard continues to inspire all of us. His bravery, his love, and his unwavering faith remind us to live with courage and never give up. Payton will forever be a legend, and his spirit lives on as an Indian Cowboy who rode hard through life’s toughest battles.
