Not Her First Rodeo: How Alexia Huffman and the Elite Lady Bull Riders Defied the Odds
‘Not Her First Rodeo’ chronicles the journey of five women who have bucked tradition to pursue professional bull riding. Focusing on Alexia Huffman and her peers in the Elite Lady Bull Riders, this docu-series captures milestones from childhood competitions to military service, personal triumphs, and the fight for recognition.
By highlighting their resilience, dedication, and community support, the series offers an inspiring glimpse into gender equality in rodeo, inviting viewers to root for change in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Early Life and Military Roots
Born and raised in Southern California, Alexia Huffman first climbed onto livestock at age five when she began riding sheep and calves in Norco. She quickly demonstrated a natural talent, winning the Mutton Bustin’ Championship in 2004 with the California Junior Bull Riding Association.
At fifteen, she paused her rodeo pursuits to focus on academics and nation, joining the University of Wyoming’s ROTC program.
Graduating in 2019 with a Bachelor’s in Agricultural Business, she commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Army, later rising to Captain in the 82nd Airborne Division. This experience sharpened her discipline for the arena.
Returning to the Arena: Breaking Barriers
After a decade-long hiatus, Alexia returned to bull riding at the age of 25, reigniting a passion that had never truly faded. She joined the Elite Lady Bull Riders, an organization founded by Jordan Halvorsen to create a supportive space for women in the sport.
Within a year, Alexia claimed the 2023 Novice Division Year-End Champion title under the ELBR banner, proving that her comeback was more than a personal triumph—it was a statement on equality. Her husband, Nate Helm, serves as her roper and confidant, symbolizing the teamwork and trust that fuel her success in every eight-second ride.
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‘Not Her First Rodeo’: Spotlight on Women in Bull Riding
Debuting May 22 on Freeform and streaming June 6 on Hulu, ‘Not Her First Rodeo’ offers an inside look at professional bull riding through the lens of the Elite Lady Bull Riders. Across six parts, viewers meet five fearless women—Jorden Halvorsen, Catalina Langlitz, Renata Nunes, Athena Rivera, and Alexia Huffman—each risking life and limb for a championship buckle.
The docu-series balances gritty competition with personal stories, showcasing how dedication and camaraderie fuel these athletes. By amplifying female voices in a male-dominated arena, the show underscores themes of perseverance, gender equality, and cultural tradition.
Legacy and Impact: Beyond the Chute
Beyond competition, Alexia and her fellow riders are shaping the future of women’s bull riding. On their Raeford, North Carolina, ranch, Alexia and Nate Helm operate Sleepy Moon, raising bulls and hosting events that promote women’s bull riding across two states. Their YouTube channel shares daily ranch life, training tips, and Western lifestyle lessons, extending their reach beyond the arena.
Meanwhile, the Elite Lady Bull Riders organization continues to grow, empowering more female athletes and inspiring audiences to support gender equality in rodeo. Their combined efforts signal a lasting legacy of resilience and community.
Final Words
‘Not Her First Rodeo’ is more than a sports documentary—it’s a testament to perseverance and the power of community. Alexia Huffman’s journey from a five-year-old sheep rider to Army Captain and championship bull rider illustrates how passion, discipline, and support can rewrite expectations.
As audiences cheer every eight-second ride, they witness not just a competition, but a movement toward equality and empowerment. This docu-series invites viewers to celebrate these women’s courage and consider their roles in championing change.
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