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Ask a child what they want to be when they grow up, and you’ll likely hear answers like astronaut, doctor, or firefighter. But in certain parts of Australia, a new generation of youngsters has their sights set on something a bit less mainstream — professional bull riding.

Thanks to the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Australia’s Can-Am Junior Academy, these aspiring young bull riders are carving out promising careers in the country’s fastest-growing sport. Among them are cousins, Sonny and Lane Heffernan, who both say bull riding runs “in their blood.”

As the nephews of veteran PBR rider Cody Heffernan – winner of the 2022 PBR Australia Monster Energy Grand Finals and a seasoned international competitor – both boys have grown up watching their uncle dominate in the arena.

Consequently, ten-year-old Sonny, who competes in the ‘Pee Wees’ division, feels a natural connection to the sport.

“Cody helps me a lot. He comes to my practice sessions, and I send him videos of the bulls I struggle with, and he tells me what I can do better,” says Sonny. “And I’ve had Lane supporting me too.”

Fifteen-year-old Lane, who now competes in the ‘Rising Stars’ division – just one level below the professional opens – shares how the family influence sparked his own passion for the sport.

“I grew up wanting to be like Cody,” Lane says. “My dad also used to bull ride, so having my family involved in the sport made me want to do it.”

Though Lane admits that competing at this level has been challenging, he’s optimistic about his future.

 “It’s been tough, but I think next year will be my year,” he added.

For Cody, watching his nephews follow in his footsteps has been a source of great pride.

“It’s been really good getting to watch them both grow and progress through the sport,” he says.

“I get nervous every time I see them ride and I always want to see them do good and hopefully they can be better than me.”

Like many young riders, Sonny and Lane dream of attending bull riding college and competing professionally, both in Australia and the United States. According to PBR Australia General Manager Glen Young, the Can-Am Junior Academy, which launched in 2022, plays a vital role in helping these young athletes achieve such goals.

“The Can-Am Junior Academy offers young riders the opportunity to learn from the best in the sport, while focusing on safety and skill development,” says Mr Young.

“We started the Academy with the aim of nurturing young talent and continuing to grow the sport of bull riding in Australia.

“Our structured training and competitive events create the ideal environment for building confidence and experience, giving these young riders the foundation they need to succeed.”

Cody agrees the exposure and mentorship offered through the Academy are essential in preparing them for the professional circuit.

“It’s really good for these kids to be able to showcase their skills here at the PBR,” he added.

“When I turned eighteen and went pro and saw all my heroes; it took a bit to get adjusted. I remember falling off in the first eight events I went to before finally sticking one.

“Giving these kids the platform to do it in this environment, in front of big crowds and bright lights, and with the big guns as well, helps them get used to it now.”

As Cody gears up for the PBR Australia Monster Energy Grand Finals in Townsville on November 1 and 2, both Sonny and Lane will be cheering him on.

The top junior riders from each division will also have the opportunity to showcase their skills in the Grand Finals arena, with selections determined at the Tamworth event next weekend — where both Sonny and Lane are hoping to make the cut.

“Being able to feature some of these talented young riders on one of the biggest stages of the season is an incredible opportunity for them,” says Mr Young.

“Not only do they get to test their skills in front of large crowds, but they also gain firsthand experience of what it takes to compete at the highest level of the sport.

“We’re excited to see how the Can-Am Junior Academy will continue to evolve over the coming years, producing world-class talent right here in Australia.”