Australian rodeo bull rider Bradie Gray arrived by ambulance at the Wyoming Medical Center on June 15 with no pulse. Today he walked to a press conference after announcing he’d be discharged later this afternoon.
Gray, who rodeos for Odessa College in Texas, was seriously injured when a bull stomped on his chest during a College National Finals Rodeo performance on June 15, in Casper. It was the most serious and life threatening injury in the CNFR’s 20-year history in Casper.
Gray, flanked by his parents Mick and Sharon, along with two nurses, walked slowly but confidently to chairs set up for the press conference. He is on oxygen, speaks softly and tires easily. Both of his lungs collapsed in the accident. He also suffered a bruised aorta and broken ribs.
After he’s released he’ll spend two more days in Casper before the family starts the long drive back to Odessa, Tex.
As news of the accident spread, offers of help poured in from Casper and other parts of the world. “We’re totally grateful for all the support”, said Mick Gray.
“We just want to thank everyone”, said Bradie Gray. “It’s been amazing, I can’t thank everyone enough”.
Bradie, who started riding bulls around the age of 14, expects to make a full recovery and intends to compete again. “Bull riding is my passion”, said Bradie.
Bradie will continue to recuperate in Odessa for at least another month before he’s fit to fly home to Austrailia.
