Intro
Eight seconds doesn’t sound like much, until you’re the one in the chute on the back of a bronc. That’s where Lefty Holman makes his living. A five-time NFR qualifier and third-generation cowboy out of Visalia, California, he grew up with rodeo in his blood and dust on his boots.
His grandfather qualified for the NFR multiple times. His uncle Joe Marvel is ProRodeo Hall of Famer. But bloodline alone isn’t a one way ticket to the big leagues. Lefty built his own name the hard way through dedication, grit, and the kind of toughness you can’t fake.
When the gate cracks, it’s just him and 1,700 pounds of horsepower. That split second of commitment. That eight-second test. That’s what keeps him coming back. That’s living free. We’re fired up to welcome Lefty to the family.
Q&A
What is your profession? And did you always know this is what you would end up doing, or was it something you stumbled into?
I’m a professional rodeo athlete and a five-time NFR qualifier. Rodeo runs deep in my family. My uncle was a world champion, and my grandpa qualified for the NFR multiple times. Because of that, it never felt like something I stumbled into. Rodeo chose me long before I chose it.
When you’re not doing your core pursuit, what else do you enjoy doing?
When I’m not competing, I’m focused on family time. We spend a lot of time in Hawaii fishing, hiking, and being outdoors as much as possible. I also enjoy training and staying ready, both physically and mentally.
How do you incorporate music into your life?
Music is constant in my life. It’s in the gym, on the road, at the beach, and on long drives between rodeos. It sets the tone. Some days it fires me up, and other days it helps me slow down and reset after competing.
What does “Live Free” mean to you?
Making your own path, owning your wins and losses, and not letting fear or other people’s opinions steer your life is what it’s all about.
Any guilty pleasures?
Loud music way too early in the morning.
What’s your hottest take or most controversial opinion?
Comfort is overrated. If you’re always comfortable, you’re probably not growing.
What’s the craziest thing that’s happened to you in the wild/on tour?
Breaking down in the middle of nowhere between rodeos with no cell service and still finding a way to make it to the next one. Rodeo teaches you real quick how to adapt or get left behind.
Who is your favorite musical artist? Or what are you listening to right now?
I bounce between country, rock, and hip-hop depending on the day. Right now it’s a mix of Ernest, Zach Bryan, Mexican OT, reggae, and some old-school stuff that reminds me why I started.
Favorite Turtlebox speaker and why? How do you use it?
The Turtlebox Grande. It’s loud, tough, and built for real life, not just the living room. Mine goes everywhere: workouts, tailgates, ranch days, beach trips, and road stops. If I’m outside, it’s probably playing.