CROCKETT, Texas - A man who drives a shuttle bus in the parking lot of Second Baptist Church is a cowboy legend who hasn’t lost his love for connecting with people.
He’s called the "Jackie Robinson of Rodeo." He broke the color barrier for African-Americans in bull riding, but most of the church members don’t know about his place in rodeo history.
He doesn’t like to brag: “I don’t talk it,” says 83-year-old, Myrtis Dightman.
Dightman was once ranked as the number one bull rider in the world. He was the first black professional cowboy to compete in the National Finals Rodeo.
He's also been inducted into every important rodeo or cowboy hall of fame.
"I just wanted to prove to the world, I could ride bulls, and that's what I done," he said.
For Dightman, it all started in the town of Crockett, where he was born and still lives.
His living room is like a museum, stuffed with trophies and belts and medals.
He no longer rides, but is still a cowboy. He tends to his livestock every day, including some bulls.
"Always wanted to have some of my own," he said.
His one complaint is that not enough African-Americans are taking part in rodeo competition today.
"I wish there were more black cowboys, but I don't see it,” he said.
Crockett has honored Dightman at the town’s rodeo arena, where he has been immortalized in a bronze bust.
"The good Lord made it happen," says Dightman.
