Nebraska native makes large 'dent' in riding world

Steven Dent has only been on the professional rodeo circuit for a couple of years, but he's already gaining a lot of ground.

The 22-year-old from Mullen, Neb., has already earned more than $133,000, competing in the bareback riding and saddle bronc riding. He's hoping to reach the level of a world champion. For now, he's ready to face whatever challenges come his way.

Dent is competing in this weekend's Professional Cowboys Rodeo Association event, sponsored by the Log Cabin Democrat. He posted a score of 75 Friday night in the bareback riding competition. That score held up until Jake Halverson picked up an 83.

Overall, though, Dent's been pleased with how far he's come.

"It's been pretty good," he said. "I can't complain."

Dent was the PRCA Resitol all-around rookie of the year in 2006, as well as the PRCA Resitol bareback riding rookie of the year. He won the all-around at the 2007 College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyo., to solidify his position as a true up-and-comer and contender for several titles.

He's currently No. 2 in the overall standings on his circuit. Sometimes that's been having to make the best of what he's had to work with.

"The toughest challenge has been drawing a good horse," Dent said. "You've just got to stay on it and do your best."

Earlier this year, Dent earned $53, 500 after winning the bareback competition at RodeoHouoston. He tied an event record with a 91-point ride at that rodeo.

"It's always good to win a rodeo," Dent said. "You enter a rodeo to win it, and that's the ultimate satisfaction."

The payoff was also sweet satisfaction, as the Houston event had the best pay of the rodeos Dent competes in.

Dent said he'd never been to Conway before this weekend's event except for just passing through. However, he came anticipating a good rodeo.

"This should be a great time," Dent said. "There's a lot of good talent and horses. There's a lot of good competition."

Dent said he plans on entering the world championship finals this year. He's hoping his success and rich family pedigree will help him reach that ultimate level.

"I've pretty much done rodeos my whoe life," Dent said. "My dad used to ride broncs. I'm just hoping to win a world title. I haven't achieved everything I've wanted to, but it's been good."