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Ricky Bolin - 2017

  • Writer: TCHOF
    TCHOF
  • Nov 19, 2016
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jun 24

NFR qualifier and former General Manager of HatCo – makers of Resistol, Stetson & Charlie 1 Horse.

Induction Year: 2017

Born: Mesquite, Texas

Primary Discipline: Rodeo

Profession / Role: Professional Bull Rider; Western Industry Executive

Primary Skills: Bull Riding; Western Brand Leadership

Known For: Four-time National Finals Rodeo (NFR) qualifier; longtime General Manager of HatCo, maker of Resistol, Stetson, and Charlie 1 Horse hats.


Early Life and Background

Ricky Bolin grew up in Mesquite, Texas, attending local rodeos and aspiring to compete professionally. Determined to become a cowboy, he entered weekly rodeos as a teenager and was willing to ride any bucking stock available. At age 15, he earned his Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) card—an uncommon achievement for someone under the usual minimum age requirement—supported by rodeo legends Neal Gay and Jim Shoulders.


By age 19, Bolin qualified for his first National Finals Rodeo, then held in Oklahoma City. His early exposure to elite competition confirmed his commitment to bull riding as a profession. Known by the nickname “Stick,” he quickly developed a reputation for grit and determination on the rodeo trail.


Professional Rodeo Career

Bolin qualified for the National Finals Rodeo four times (1978, 1979, 1983, and 1985), competing during a highly competitive era of professional bull riding. In addition to his NFR appearances, he qualified for the Texas Circuit Finals 11 times and won the Texas Circuit Bull Riding Championship in 1988.


He was among the early professional rodeo athletes to secure a major national sponsorship, signing an endorsement agreement with Coors Beer during the prime of his competitive career. At a time when large corporate sponsorships were uncommon in rodeo, this partnership reflected both his marketability and the growing commercial visibility of the sport.


Bolin retired from professional bull riding in 1989 at age 30, concluding a career that spanned approximately two decades in and around the PRCA circuit.


Career with HatCo and Western Industry Leadership

Following his retirement from competition, Bolin joined HatCo, Inc., the Garland, Texas–based manufacturer of Resistol, Stetson, and Charlie 1 Horse hats. Beginning at the company’s outlet store, he advanced through positions including Territory Sales Representative, Sales Manager, National Sales Manager, and ultimately General Manager.


Under Bolin’s leadership, Resistol experienced significant growth and brand expansion. HatCo produces approximately one million hats annually, all handcrafted at its Garland headquarters. The company remains one of the most recognized names in Western headwear, with Resistol serving as the longest-standing sponsor of the PRCA.


Throughout his tenure, Bolin received multiple industry honors, including Salesman of the Year awards, the Western Image Award, and Cavender’s Boot City Salesman of the Year recognition. After 34 years with the company, he announced his retirement as General Manager in 2024, transitioning into a role as Brand Ambassador and consultant.


Legacy and Recognition

Ricky Bolin’s contributions extend across both competitive rodeo and the broader Western industry. As a competitor, he represented the grit and athleticism of professional bull riding during a pivotal era. As an executive, he helped guide one of the most historic Western brands through sustained growth while maintaining its Texas-based manufacturing heritage.


His honors include:

  • Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame – Inducted 2011

  • Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame – Inducted 2017

  • Professional Bull Riders Ring of Honor – Inducted 2017

  • National Rodeo Hall of Fame – Inducted 2020

  • The Bull Riding Hall of Fame – Inducted 2024

  • He also served for ten years on the Texas Circuit Finals Board of Directors and has supported numerous charitable and community organizations, including Cowboys Who Care and youth-focused initiatives in the Dallas area.


Later Years

Following his retirement from corporate leadership, Bolin has remained active in the Western industry as a brand ambassador and mentor. He continues to participate in team roping and outdoor activities while supporting community and charitable efforts.

Ricky Bolin’s career reflects both athletic achievement and executive leadership within the Western lifestyle industry. His impact bridges the arena and the boardroom, representing a lifelong commitment to rodeo and the preservation of Western tradition.


Links and References

 




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