William Herschel “Bud” Upton resides on his ranch southeast of San Angelo, Texas. He is a seventh generation rancher and full blood Texan who is very proud of his ranching and western heritage.
Bud’s involvement in the sport of rodeo grew from his occupation of ranching. Bud has competed as an all-around cowboy at the junior, high school, college, professional and senior levels.
He became a member of the Rodeo Cowboys Association (RCA) in 1966 and has been a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) since its inception in 1976. He is a five time National Finals Rodeo Steer Roping qualifier in 1969, 1973, 1974, 1975 & 1980.
Bud won many RCA and PRCA Steer Roping Championships including but not limited to: Ben Johnson Memorial Steer Roping in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, 1973 & 1976; O.S. Ranch Steer Roping in Post, Texas, 1975; West of the Pecos Rodeo, 1975 & 1977; Tri-State Steer Roping Association, 1977; Woodward Elks Rodeo in Woodward, Oklahoma, 1978; and Windy Ryon Memorial Roping, 1982.
Additionally, he held the fastest time on 4 steers for 20 years at the Ben Johnson Memorial Steer Roping. In 1984 he tied the fastest steer at San Angelo Roping Fiesta winning the short go round.
While competing in the Senior Steer Ropers Association, he won steer ropings including: Windy Ryon Memorial Roping, 1990; Rope-A-Wish, 1992; and Mack Yates Memorial Roping, 1996.
Bud has dedicated countless hours volunteering to promote the sport of Rodeo. Starting with his involvement in the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo Association in 1962, serving on the board of directors for 25 years, the Rodeo Chairman for 20 years, and the Chairman of the San Angelo Roping Fiesta from 1966-1980. He served as president of the organization from 1986-1988.
William Herschel “Bud” Upton continues to promote the rodeo legacy!
