Geoff Cooper
Chinook Writer
Talon Elshere, a member of the Casper College Rodeo Team, is pictured competing in bronc riding. He transferred to Casper College from a school in Texas, and he is ranked third in the Central Rocky Mountain Region.
Talon Elshere, originally from Hereford, S.D., is a dedicated rodeo athlete specializing in bronc riding, team roping, and steer wrestling. His passion for rodeo led him to Casper College, where he joined the school’s rodeo team.
For Elshere, rodeo is more than just a competition—it’s about camaraderie and enjoying the sport with his buddies.
“Money comes second when you’re having fun with the boys,” Elshere said. “And you’d rather get beat by your buddy than some other guy.”
Despite ranking third in the Central Rocky Mountain region, Elshere remains grounded and aware of the risks involved in rodeo.
“There’s a chance of getting hurt, but you’ve got to pay the price to win the game,” he said.
This risk, according to Elshere, can be mitigated provided you stay fit. This doesn’t necessarily require hours in the gym. For Elshere, it’s more like working on the family ranch and breaking colts.
Elshere credits Sandy Forbes, the assistant rodeo coach for CC, with his decision to join the team. After a couple of semesters in Texas, he sought out Wyoming cowboys.
“They’ll tell you when you messed up and praise you when you do good,” Elshere said.
Beyond competition, rodeo is about entertaining the crowd and showcasing skills developed through hard work. Elshere said he represents Casper College with pride, embodying the spirit of a cowboy dedicated to his sport and appreciative of the bonds formed along the way.
Elshere’s journey at Casper College reflects the essence of rodeo—a combination of skill, camaraderie, and passion for the sport.
