Dalton was a proud eighth-grader at Berkeley Middle School, balancing his academic obligations with his budding rodeo career. In 2023, Dalton’s hard work paid off when he qualified through the South Carolina Rodeo Association to compete in the 16th annual Youth Bull Riders World Finals in Abilene, Texas in August. This remarkable accomplishment highlighted his rapid rise within the sport, considering he had only been competing in bull riding for less than two years.
Dalton’s dream was to become a professional bull rider, and he was well on his way to achieving that dream. His courage, perseverance and love of rodeo were evident to all who knew him. Those close to Dalton remember his infectious enthusiasm and willingness to give it his all, both in and out of the arena.
Honors pour in
News of Dalton’s death has left a deep void in the rodeo community and beyond, with friends, mentors and family members offering heartfelt condolences and honoring his legacy and the impact he had in his short life.
Daniel Smith, a close family friend, shared his disbelief, saying, “I still can’t believe it. Walker just texted me and I’m at a loss for words. Dalton was a role model to everyone, young and old. Now you’re in heaven riding in the rodeo. My prayers are with his family and sister. God, keep your arms around them.”
Joshua Michael Crager, who had met Dalton two years earlier during a bareback riding school in South Carolina, recalled how the young cowboy immediately impressed him with his politeness and dedication. “Little did I know that I would meet one of the coolest 12-year-olds who instantly melted my heart. Over the years, I have tried to follow his rodeo career and watch him grow and achieve incredible things. Today I received the heartbreaking call that Dalton is no longer with us.”
Dalton Weise’s short but inspiring journey reminds us of the beauty of pursuing dreams with passion and heart. As the community mourns, they take comfort in knowing that Dalton’s spirit will live on in the rodeo arenas and in the lives of those he touched.
May he rest in peace and ride high at the great rodeo.
