We were having supper at the Ryegate Bar & Cafe last Saturday night and some of the folks at the bar played this song for me. Because I take my hat off when I am in a building makes people notice my manners which I think is strange.

What they did not realize is how big a hero Chris Ledoux is of mine. In high school I knew the words to every Chris Ledoux song and Bareback Jack was my theme song. I spent a year of college at Casper and Chris Ledoux was a legend around there. Dale Styles was the coach nd I think Chris Ledoux was on one of his National Championship teams for the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.

My kids both were big fans of Chris Ledoux. My wife cried when we heard of his passing.

Of all the public figures I have looked up to, he is my biggest hero. I admired his try as a bareback rider, enjoyed his singing and songwriting, appreciated the image he sang for the western ranching lifestyle, was inspired by his dedication to family, and I liked the way he shaped and wore his hat.

If you are ever in Ryegate, Montana on a Friday or Saturday night stop at the bar on the corner and get a good burger. You will hear some good music on the jukebox from the folks sitting at the bar and if your real lucky they will play “This Old Hat” by Chris Ledoux.

~ Curt Pate