McKenzie County Farmer - Obituaries

By M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer

For 14-year-old Jaidyn Carr of Watford City, life isn’t just about riding bulls; it’s about building a legacy, one buck-off at a time. In a community known for its strong rodeo traditions, 14-year-old Jaidyn Carr of Watford City is making waves. Not only is he a passionate bull rider himself, but he also recently organized the “Frost Legacy Butch Haugland Memorial Bull Riding School,” bringing top-tier instruction to the area.

While Jaidyn is somewhat new to the sport, he’s already jumping into the arena with all the confidence and swagger of a veteran rider. “I began my bull riding career about six months ago,” Jaidyn shared. “One Sunday, I just told my parents I was going to ride a bull the next Sunday. They helped me find the gear, and we went to Dickinson. I was on for four seconds, and it was the best four seconds. I just wanted to keep doing it.”

For Jaidyn, it was a simple answer to some deep questions about life. Soon after that first ride, he found that his commitment to bull riding has a much deeper meaning beyond the thrill. “For one reason or another my life turned to a path that I should not have been on. When I found myself in bad spots, time and time again I would find myself watching bull riding, and it helped with what I was going through…I decided I wanted to get my life together and put more effort into riding.”

The re-channeling of his energy has paid off in a big way: “Bull riding has changed my life,” he explained. “It’s taught me about respect, how to focus my mind, believe in myself, show good sportsmanship, and how to be a straight-up cowboy.” He also draws inspiration from figures like Gage Gay, who offered him tips and support. Even when faced with setbacks or injuries, Jaidyn’s passion remains undeterred. “I love the feeling of crawling into the bucking chutes,” he said. “When I am in the chutes all the drama, and heartbreak goes away. It’s just me and that bull.”

This passion led Jaidyn to organize the “Frost Legacy Butch Haugland Memorial Bull Riding School,” held May 2-4, 2025, at the old fairgrounds in Watford City. The school was designed for aspiring bull riders aged 7 and older. For 100 bucks, the students who applied were provided with world-class instruction - plus meals and snacks, of course.

When asked what inspired him to organize the event he explained, “I love bull riding and I wanted to help people get better.” To accomplish this, he helped bring in legendary instructor Joe Frost, a PBR World Finals qualifier, five-time Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifier, and four-time National Champion. “He has the best bull riding school in the world. He is the most patient man I’ve ever met, and he loves this industry.” The clinic saw 16 students participate, and the community response has been overwhelmingly positive. “People have been extremely excited to meet him,” Jaidyn noted. “It’s been good to bring the greatest school to North Dakota, and we are planning to do this every year.” Adding another special touch, the event was dedicated to the memory of Butch Haugland, a regional ag educator, cowboy, auctioneer, and rodeo enthusiast who was beloved by many North Dakotans.

Jaidyn’s story is an inspiring example that when passion meets a desire to serve others, it can lead to remarkable achievements at any age. As he continues to pursue his own bull riding dreams, his efforts to uplift and educate fellow enthusiasts ensure that the spirit of rodeo and the legacy of figures like Butch Haugland will thrive in Watford City for years to come.

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