Events: Steer Wrestling, Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bareback Riding, Calf Roping, Team Roping, Steer Roping
Early life:
Born in 1926 in Deming, New Mexico and raised on the family ranch. He won his first trophy saddle at the age of 11.
Army Air Corps Radio Operator stationed in the South Pacific from 1944-1946.
Attended New Mexico A&M and later transferred to Sul Ross State University where he majored in Range Animal Science.
Rodeo Highlights:
First All-Around World Championship of NIRA (National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association). Won seven collegiate titles including All-Around, Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding and Bareback Riding.
President of the NIRA. (1950)
Three World Championships in Steer Wrestling (1952, 1956 and 1965)
NFR Championship in Steer Wrestling (1960)
Only person in the history of the PRCA to be listed at one time or another in the top 15 in seven events.
President of the RCA (forerunner of the PRCA) (1957 to 1961) during which the NFR was founded due to Harley casting his only tie breaker vote as President in favor of its establishment. Presented President Eisenhower with the first NFR tickets.
Elected chairman of the first NFR.
Honored in 1983 by being aked personally by President Reagan to compete at an exhibition rodeo at the Nation’s capital.
Other Career Highlights:
Served on the PRCA Competition Committee (1986-2000).
Served on PRCA Advisory Committee.
Judged both PRCA and Intercollegiate as well as NOTRA rodeos.
Rodeo coach for Sul Ross State University 1995-1998.
Ongoing movie career: stunt double, extra, commercials, magazine ads, Wrangler, supplied horses and livestock.
Maintained a successful ranch real estate practice in Oakdale, CA.
Put on steer wrestling clinics and schools both in the United States and abroad. Helped Australia establish their rodeo program.
Last endeavor was assisting his wife in their Paint Horse boarding operation in West Texas and they retired in 2007 and moved to Santa Ana, CA.
