The Wait Is over: Ordway’s Waitley Sharon shines at Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- For Waitley Sharon, competing professionally at Norris-Penrose Event Center isn't just another rodeo stop, it's home.

The Ordway, Colo. native grew up around the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo, creating memories with family long before he ever climbed onto a saddle bronc as a competitor.

"It's a great, great spot," Sharon said. "I've got tons of awesome memories of me playing in the river down there with my cousins in between performances and stuff and just hanging out."

Now, those childhood memories have come full circle.

Sharon is the latest member of his family to make an impact in the rodeo world. Following in his father's and mother's footsteps, he has the opportunity to compete in the same arena where generations of cowboys and cowgirls have competed.

"It's super awesome," Sharon said. "I watched my dad rodeo here. … It's pretty dang cool."

The rookie saddle bronc rider made the most of his chance in front of a hometown crowd during this year's Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. Sharon advanced to the short round, a milestone made even more meaningful because it happened on familiar ground.

"I have a lot of family and friends down here, so it's really cool to do it in front of them," he said. "It's been a goal for a very long time."

While Sharon has quickly impressed in his rookie season, those who know him best describe him as humble and soft-spoken. Despite competing on bigger stages, he remains closely connected to the community that raised him.

"Dad's always telling me, 'I saw so-and-so and they said they're watching you rodeo,'" Sharon said. "Everybody's really supportive. It's pretty cool."

That support has traveled with him as he begins the next chapter of his career. The oldest of five children, Sharon now competes for Tarleton State University, where he continues to develop as one of rodeo's promising young talents.

But no matter where rodeo takes him, Sharon says Southern Colorado will always hold a special place in his heart.

"I think when you're young, you're ready to leave. You're ready to go see other things," he said. "Then you go see everything else and realize [Ordway] a pretty good spot in the world."

For Sharon, competing at Norris-Penrose was more than a rodeo performance. It was the fulfillment of a dream years in the making, and a chance to continue a family tradition in front of the people who have supported him every step of the way.