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Monty “Hawkeye” Henson - 2004

Writer: TCHOF
TCHOF
Nov 20, 2003
3 min read

Updated: Jun 24

3-Time World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider, TV Personality

Induction Year: 2004

Born: October 22, 1953Farmersville, Texas

Primary Discipline: Rodeo

Profession / Role: Professional Saddle Bronc Rider; Entertainer

Primary Skills: Saddle Bronc RidingHorsemanshipPublic Performance and Media Appearance

Known For: Three-time PRCA World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider. Fourteen-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier known for his distinctive style and “flying dismount.”


Early Life and Background

Monty “Hawkeye” Henson was born October 22, 1953, in Farmersville, Texas, and was raised in Mesquite, Texas. He grew up in proximity to rodeo culture, including early exposure to prominent rodeo figures such as Don Gay and Pete Gay. His first associations with organized rodeo competition occurred in Mesquite, where he began developing the riding style that would later define his career.


From an early age, Henson displayed both athletic ability and showmanship. His style in the saddle bronc event drew comparisons to legendary saddle bronc rider Casey Tibbs, particularly for balance, rhythm, and presentation. His signature eagle feather and distinctive flair became recognizable symbols on the professional rodeo circuit.


Professional Career and Rise

Henson joined the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and quickly established himself as one of the premier saddle bronc riders of his era. He qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) 14 times during his career, demonstrating sustained excellence at the highest level of professional rodeo competition.


He won three PRCA World Championships in Saddle Bronc Riding in 1975, 1976, and 1982. In addition to his world titles, Henson won the NFR Average Championship four times (1976, 1982, 1984, and 1985), a record that underscored his consistency across multiple rounds of championship competition.


Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Henson captured major titles at some of rodeo’s most prestigious events, including Cheyenne Frontier Days, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, and numerous leading rodeos across the United States. He also competed internationally, representing American rodeo in countries including Australia, Argentina, France, and Finland.


Henson became widely known not only for competitive success but also for his personality and presence. His “flying dismount” at the completion of a ride became a crowd-pleasing trademark. Beyond the arena, he expanded into entertainment and media, appearing in television programs and films. In 2004, he appeared in four episodes of the HBO television series Deadwood. He has also been involved in country music performance and rodeo promotion, further broadening his public profile.


Legacy and Impact

Monty “Hawkeye” Henson is regarded as one of the most recognizable saddle bronc riders of his generation. His competitive accomplishments—three world championships and 14 NFR qualifications—place him among the elite in PRCA history.


Equally significant was his ability to connect with audiences. Henson blended athletic performance with personality, helping elevate the public visibility of saddle bronc riding during a period of national television exposure for rodeo. His distinctive attire, humor, and presentation contributed to rodeo’s cultural identity in the late twentieth century.

His induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2004 recognized both his championship record and his broader contribution to the sport’s popularity.


Later Years

Monty Henson remains active in rodeo-related endeavors and entertainment. Based in Weatherford, Texas, he continues to promote rodeo events and participate in public appearances connected to Western heritage and professional rodeo.

 

HONORS AND RECOGNITION

  • PRCA World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider, 1975, 1976 & 1982

  • National Finals Rodeo Qualifier – 14 Times

  • National Finals Rodeo Average Champion, 1976, 1982, 1984 & 1985

  • ProRodeo Hall of Fame, 1994

  • Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, 2004

  • Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame, 2002


LINKS AND REFERENCES

 

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