A tragic accident has taken the life of 18-year-old rodeo star Ace Patton Ashford of Lott, Texas.

On August 12, while caring for a sick calf near Chilton, a spooked horse entangled his leg and dragged him across a field.

He suffered severe head injuries and, despite being airlifted to Baylor Scott & White Hospital, passed away that morning.

Ashford was widely admired in the rodeo world for his talent and dedication to team roping. A recent graduate of Rosebud-Lott High School,

he was preparing to join the Hill College Rodeo Team this fall. His achievements included winning the 2023 Riata Buckle #10.5 Junior Championship

and the 2024 Patriot #11.5 All-Ages Championship, accomplishments that marked him as one of rodeo’s brightest rising stars.

Known as humble and hardworking, Ashford earned respect from peers and mentors alike. National Finals Rodeo roper

Cody Snow described him as “about as pure as they get,” praising both his skill and character.

His passing has left a deep impact on the community. A memorial scholarship has been created in his honor to

support future rodeo athletes. Ashford’s legacy endures through his achievements, his generosity, and the lives he touched.