What happened to Larry Mahan? Is he still alive?

Publish date: 2024-05-05

Larry Mahan is a name that resonates with rodeo fans and cowboys alike. He is one of the most accomplished and influential rodeo athletes of all time, having won six world all-around championships and two world bull-riding championships in his illustrious career.

He is also a member of several halls of fame, including the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum’s Rodeo Hall of Fame. But what happened to Larry Mahan? Is he still alive? And what is his current condition? Here is what we know.

Larry Mahan’s Rodeo Career

Larry Mahan was born on November 21, 1943, in Salem, Oregon. He started competing in professional rodeo at the age of 14 and quickly rose to prominence in the sport. He joined the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) in 1963 and dominated the circuit for over a decade. He won his first world all-around title in 1966 and repeated the feat for five consecutive years until 1970. He then won his sixth and final world all-around title in 1973, after a fierce rivalry with Phil Lyne, which was documented in the Oscar-winning film The Great American Cowboy.

Mahan was not only a versatile cowboy who excelled in multiple events, but also a fearless and charismatic performer who captivated audiences with his skill and style. He was especially renowned for his bull riding prowess, winning two world titles in 1965 and 1967. He also competed in bareback riding and saddle bronc riding, winning numerous rodeos and setting records along the way. He was the first cowboy to earn more than $50,000 in a single season in 1967 and more than $280,000 in 1970. He retired from rodeo competition in 1977, after suffering several injuries that hampered his performance.

Larry Mahan’s Legacy

Larry Mahan’s legacy extends beyond his rodeo achievements. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern rodeo, who brought a new level of professionalism and athleticism to the sport. He also helped popularize rodeo among mainstream audiences, appearing on television shows, magazines, and movies. He became a cultural icon and a role model for many aspiring cowboys and cowgirls who followed his footsteps.

Mahan also ventured into other businesses after his retirement from rodeo. He launched his own line of western wear, called Larry Mahan Collection, which featured hats, boots, shirts, jeans, and accessories. He also became involved in horse breeding and ranching, owning several properties across Texas and New Mexico. He also supported various charitable causes and organizations, such as the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

Larry Mahan’s Health Condition

Unfortunately, Larry Mahan has been battling a serious health condition for several years. In 2019, it was reported that he was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer, also known as multiple myeloma. This is a type of blood cancer that originates from plasma cells in the bone marrow and affects the production of normal blood cells. It can cause various symptoms, such as bone pain, fatigue, infections, kidney problems, and anemia.

Mahan has been undergoing treatment for his cancer since then, receiving chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. However, his condition has not improved significantly and he has been receiving palliative care at home with his family. In May 2023, rumors circulated online that Mahan had passed away, but they were quickly debunked by his friends and fans. According to a tweet from TennTexasRadio on May 6th, Mahan is still alive but transitioning into the arms of Jesus. The tweet also asked for prayers for his family during this difficult time.

Conclusion,

Larry Mahan is a legend in the rodeo world and a beloved figure among many people who admire his achievements and contributions to the sport and culture of the American West. He is still alive as of May 6th, but he is facing a terminal illness that has taken a toll on his health and quality of life. We hope that he finds peace and comfort in his final days and that his legacy lives on through his family, friends, fans, and fellow cowboys.

Source: News Unzip

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7r7HWrKynspmle6S7zGiuqKqcmXy4tMCtZKGZoKWyr7HDZquoZZyWv7PFjKaYoZmeYra0eceeZKysmaG5bq3Loq2eZw%3D%3D