On July 30, 1989, the rodeo world was shaken by the loss of Lane Frost at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo. A talented bull rider, Frost’s sudden passing cut short a promising career. Yet, his influence lives on, not just in his riding accomplishments, but also in the motivation he’s given his family to carry on his legacy.
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Nowadays, bull riders suit up with protective gear like vests and helmets, a practice that’s helped prevent the kind of tragic injuries that claimed Frost’s life. But beyond safety measures, the Frost Family name continues to be a force in the rodeo community. Joe Frost and his younger brother, Josh, carry on the family tradition, following in the footsteps of their famous cousin Lane.
Josh and Joe Are Keeping Lane’s Legacy Alive
Growing up, Lane was a hero to Joe and Josh, even though they never got to meet him. They’d watch his videos, like “Bull Talk,” where Lane would share tips on riding, according to the Edmonton Journal. These videos were their daily dose of inspiration, guiding them as they pursued their own dreams in the arena.
Rodeo runs deep in the Frost family’s veins. Their dad, Shane, was a bull rider, and their grandfather and great-uncle were rodeo legends too. Their great-uncle even competed in the very first National Finals Rodeo. It’s no surprise that Joe and Josh started riding at such a young age.
Josh and Joe’s Bull Riding Success
Josh Frost’s list of achievements in 2023 speaks volumes about his skill and dedication. In 2023, Josh Frost dominated rodeo arenas, winning the all-around titles at the Canyonlands PRCA Rodeo, the Reno Rodeo, and the Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series. He maintained his title in the Bull Riding World Standings, securing second place for the third consecutive year and earning a pay of $400,766 in season earnings. Josh also secured his fourth consecutive Linderman Award, showcasing his versatility across tie-down roping, steer wrestling, and team roping. His talent continued in Las Vegas, where he earned $168,732 and clinched third place in the NFR Average with 429.5 points over five events.
Even though Joe Frost decided to retire in 2019 due to injury, his impact on the rodeo scene is still felt. In 2019, he finished 55th globally in rodeo standings, earning $22,279. A highlight was winning at the Strawberry Days Rodeo in Utah.
In 2018, he had an incredible winning year. At the Wrangler NFR, he won Round 2 and tied for first in Round 8. Overall, he placed second in the average, scoring 436.5 points on five rides. He ended the year third worldwide, pocketing $252,054. Notable wins included the Ponoka Stampede in Alberta and the RAM Wilderness Circuit Finals Rodeo in Utah. He also claimed victories at rodeos in Montana, Wyoming.
2017 saw him shine at the Wrangler NFR, winning Round 7 and placing in seven rounds to rank second in the average. He finished the year fourth globally with earnings of $304,566. Victories included rodeos in Florida, Texas, and New Mexico. He grabbed the all-around title at events in Utah and showcased his bull riding skills, earning wins at rodeos in Utah.
As bull riders gear up for their next ride, they carry with them the legacy of Lane Frost— a reminder that true champions never fade away, their spirit riding alongside every rider who dares to take on the challenge of being in the arena.