A Central Texas teenager, who was set to start his rodeo career this fall, tragically died while trying to help an injured calf. Friends and family are now coming together to remember and honor the young cowboy.
Ace Patton Ashford, an 18-year-old from the Chilton area between Waco and Temple, tragically died after being dragged by a horse while checking on a sick calf on August 12.
The horse became frightened by the calf and bolted, causing Ashford’s leg to get tangled, leading to him being dragged into an open field.
Despite being airlifted to a hospital, Ashford succumbed to his head injuries later that morning.
Ace Patton Ashford, a recent Rosebud-Lott High School graduate and member of the Texas High School Rodeo Association, was set to join the Hill College Rodeo Team. From a rodeo family, he excelled as a roper in team roping.
He was the son of Troy and Jamie Ashford and the younger brother of Ross Ashford, who is ranked No. 16 in the world in team roping.
Friends and family have been sharing memories of Ace Patton Ashford, highlighting his significant impact on the community and expressing deep sympathy for his family.
In his honor, the Ashford family has established a scholarship fund. A memorial service is scheduled for 10 a.m. on August 17 at Rosebud-Lott High School.
