Friends remember friend with annual rodeo event

By MANDY JOHN | Central Texas Edition

David Eggleston Memorial Rodeo Committee is gathered, determined to make the annual rodeo a success. -- Photos by Mandy John

March 6, 2003 -- Keeping a friend's memory alive and helping other people have been two of the reasons the David Eggleston Memorial Rodeo has been around. Another reason is the people dedicated to making the rodeo become a success.

Going on its fourth year, the rodeo was started to honor the memory of 12-year-old David Eggleston, who was tragically killed outside his Waxahachie home four years ago. Cole Bailey, David's friend, decided that something needed to be created to honor Eggleston. That is when the idea for the memorial rodeo was born.

"The two of us, along with our other two friends, Justin Phillips and Jake Fincher, began steer riding shortly before he died. Some of the best memories we have of David were all of us going to rodeos together," explained Bailey.

He said it seemed appropriate to put on a rodeo, in their friend's honor, with the proceeds going to help local groups and organizations. The rodeo is held each year at the Cowboy Church of Ellis County, located in Waxahachie.

"I am so proud of what this has become," Bailey stated. "It wasn't ever a discussion of if it could be done, but when. It was great to see this tribute to our friend become a reality."

Above, Justin Phillips, left, David's mother Darla Rieper, and Cole Bailey say they are glad that the rodeo gives them a chance to honor David's memory in a special way. -- Photos by Mandy John

According to the website, www.geocities.com/eggleston75165/davidspage.html, the mission statement of the rodeo is "to reach all of God's children in hosting an event of our Western heritage in the name of his son, David Eggleston, in hope that this exposure will keep the memory of David alive in all of our hearts and to win others to Christ."

Shari Phillips, Justin's mother, added, "Cole needs to be commended. These boys were only 12 years old when this happened. He was not only able to think of this rodeo, but he also found a way of making it happen.

"I am extremely proud of the boys. David was a special person that touched all of our lives. This is a great event and a touching way to remember him."

Bailey added, "I think we are making a difference not only to our community, but to those who visit the rodeo. Last year, there was a man who came to the rodeo that had not been to church in 20 years. He came up and thanked us for having the rodeo because it was a great event. He said that he never thought he would be back at church, but here he was and it moved him. That was a great feeling.

"I am just so glad that this event has grown as much as it has. This is all in David's memory and it is just wonderful how his memory has made a difference in so many peoples' lives."

Organizers said they are hoping for a great turn out this year. The cost is $5 for adults and $3 for kids 6-12.

The rodeo, which is put together solely on donations, begins June 28. Bailey said, "The proceeds this year will go to fund scholarships for our local high school graduating seniors and the members of the Buckaroos of Texas."

For more information on the rodeo or to find out how to make a donation, contact Cole Bailey at 972-938-0679.