Sam Magana has committed a life time to the western way of life as man, cowboy, cattleman, rancher, husband, father, mentor, supporter and leader. At the tender age of 13, Sam began his career working on the Frost Ranch. He broke, bred, trained and rode horses through the years. He has been Ranch Manager/foreman for over 50 years. He has been a staple in the cattle industry and a pioneer in brokering cattle deals.
As a young man, Sam competed and won many Championship titles in the sport of Rodeo. He was a lead contender in the Southern Rodeo Association (SRA) for years. He was one of the first Hispanic cowboys to be sponsored by a major company. Sam traveled the Country and competed in various rough stock events. His name was found at the top of the leader board often in the Bull Riding and Saddle bronc competition. He was a trailblazer in busting racial barriers in and out of the arena. He literally was able to support his wife and 8 children on his winnings.
His passion for the sport of rodeo is far deeper than his own ambitions. He raised his 8 children to be fierce competitors and champions themselves in the sport. He offered assistance to world champions such as Joe Beaver and Cody Ohl. Bull riders, Norman Curry and Rickey Lindsay have often called Sam for both personal and professional guidance. For decades, aspiring cowboys and cowgirls referred to Sam as “Coach”. He was one of the founding members of the Youth Rodeo Association and several other rodeo associations devoted to youth.
Sam recently retired as the cutting coordinator for the Houston Livestock show and rodeo. He uniformed the cattle for the past 30 years for the world champion and elite cutting competition. He is no stranger at the prestigious event.
Sam has been married to his best friend, Delia for over 50 years. He is a father, grandfather and friend. He still rides, ropes and runs the Frost Ranch. Sam Magana has and still is a champion in life and an inspiration to many.
