Key Takeaways
- Richard “Tuff” Hedeman, a four-time World Champion bull rider and ProRodeo Hall of Fame inductee, first married Tracy Stepp in 1986, with whom he had three sons before their divorce in 2015.
- One of his sons, Lane, was named in honor of Hedeman’s close friend and fellow bull-riding legend Lane Frost, who tragically passed away in 1989.
- In 2021, Hedeman married Liz Rippetoe, and together, they now live on his ranch near Morgan Mill, Texas, where he continues to mentor young athletes and organize bull-riding events.
Richard Neale “Tuff” Hedeman is a name that is familiar to the thrilling world of professional bull riding.
A four-time World Champion and ProRodeo Hall of Fame inductee, Hedeman has left a mark on the sport.
While fans know much about his legendary clashes with the notorious bull Bodacious and his close friendship with Lane Frost, his personal life also deserves a spotlight, particularly his relationship with his wife, Liz Rippetoe.
Tuff Hedeman And His Married Life With Wife Liz and Four Kids
Hedeman married his first wife, Tracy Stepp, in 1986. The couple shared nearly three decades together before parting ways in 2015.
Their union brought three sons into the world—Lane, Trevor, and Ryker—each named with meaningful ties to Hedeman’s life and legacy.
Lane, for instance, was named in honor of Lane Frost, Hedeman’s close friend and fellow bull-riding legend who tragically passed away in 1989.
After his divorce from Tracy, Hedeman found love again.
In 2021, he married Liz Rippetoe, a partnership that brought renewed joy and companionship into his life.
Liz now stands by Tuff’s side as they reside on his ranch near Morgan Mill, Texas, embracing the cowboy lifestyle and supporting his endeavors in the world of bull riding.
Hedeman and Liz share their lives with his four sons—Lane, Trevor, Ryker, and the youngest, Rip.
Despite the demands of his career and the adrenaline-fueled world he thrives in, Hedeman prioritizes family.
His ranch serves as a serene backdrop to his otherwise high-energy lifestyle, where he continues to mentor young athletes and organize bull-riding events.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- El Paso native Tuff Hedeman, whose family hailed from New Mexico, dominated junior rodeo circuits throughout his youth, culminating in his 1980 New Mexico high school championships in both bull riding and all-around categories.
- As a pioneer in the sport, he played a key role in establishing the Professional Bull Riders, Inc.
- When not competing, Hedeman dedicates his time to attending bull riding competitions and team roping events across the country.
