The Rodeo family is saddened by the loss of celebrated bareback rider Shawn Vant. Shawn was a regular on the Canadian rodeo scene for close to two decades. Born in 1970, the talented athlete began his rough stock career as a steer rider and novice bareback rider, winning the Canadian steer riding title in 1984 and the novice bareback buckle in 1988.
The Millet, Alberta cowboy went on to qualify for the Canadian Finals eight times, winning the Average title in 1995 and competing at the CFR for the final time in 2000. Shawn earned a trip to the National Finals Rodeo in 1984. Additional accolades include the 1997 Calgary Stampede $50,000 Championship and the Guy Weadick award the same year. Shawn also won the 1998 Budweiser Pro Rodeo title and finished his rodeo career with well over $200,000 in career earnings. Known as an adventurous, life-loving individual, Shawn will be very much remembered and missed by his family, the rodeo community and friends.
A celebration of Shawn’s life will be held at a later date.
* Information and photos courtesy of the CPRA and Shawn’s family.