James Sutton, Sr., Memorial Bronze

The award of the sculpture by Spearfish artist, Tony Chytka, is given to the top Saddle Bronc rider at the Black Hills Stock Show and Rodeo. The award can only be won one time and to win you must have either been born or live in the state of SD. The 14 inch sculpture is a study of a larger piece commissioned by James Sutton, Jr.  The sculpture and the award were developed to honor James Sutton, Sr., who died in January, 1991, and the many outstanding saddle bronc riders South Dakota has and continues to produce. 

The larger piece, a half life-sized bronze statue, was unveiled at the 1992 Stock Show.  The sculpture depicts long-time friend of James Sutton, Sr., and former world champion saddle bronc horse rider John McBeth riding "Half Velvet," a horse that was an NFR competitor numerous times. The horse bucked under numerous names:  Indian Sign, Coors Lite, Half Velvet and then One-Eyed Skoal.  He was considered a real money horse because he always bucked the way cowboys like 'em.

The first recipients were the three top SD riders in 1991 - three brothers from Ree Heights, SD.  Dan, Robert, and Billy Etbauer received the award for their performance in 1991 and for their overall contributions to the sport of rodeo.

 
The 2006 and 2008 winner was J.J. Elshere of Philip, SD.

The 2005 recipient was Jake Costello of Newell, SD

The 2003 winner was Jeffery Willert of Belvidere, SD.

photo courtesy of prorodeo.com

July 18, 2002:  Jim Sutton (left), and Steve Sutton (right), present the James Sutton, Sr., Memorial Bronze to 2002 recipient, Jesse Bail (center).
   -photo courtesy of Julie Sutton