College Rodeo Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of 20-Year-Old Breakaway Roper Alejandra Franco
The college rodeo community is mourning the tragic death of Tarleton State University athlete Alejandra “Ale” Franco.
The 20-year-old breakaway roper died Thursday, September 24, after suffering injuries during a college rodeo at the S.A.L.E. Arena in Alpine, Texas.
Alejandra Franco Dies After Rodeo Accident
Franco was competing for the Tarleton State Rodeo Team during the annual Sul Ross College Rodeo when the accident occurred.
Tarleton State head rodeo coach Mark Eakin confirmed that Franco was in the roping box with her horse when the accident happened. However, officials have not released further details about exactly what led to her fatal injuries.
Sul Ross State University, which hosted the rodeo, confirmed Franco’s death in a statement on Friday.
The university expressed its condolences to Franco’s family, teammates and the wider rodeo community. Counselors were also made available during the remaining events to support those affected by the tragedy.
Tarleton State Rodeo Team Remembers Alejandra
Tarleton State University also confirmed Franco’s passing.
The university described her as someone who left a lasting impact on those who had the opportunity to know her.
Tarleton State president James Hurley remembered Franco for her smile, leadership, kindness and the positive impact she had on people around her.
Franco had recently turned 20 at the end of August. Friends and teammates have described her as someone who brought energy and positivity to the people around her.
Rodeo Community Honors Her Memory
Despite the tragedy, the weekend’s rodeo events continued as scheduled.
Sul Ross State University planned to honor Franco throughout the weekend. Purple ribbons were distributed to competitors and spectators as a tribute to the young athlete.
A moment of silence was also held in Franco’s honor during the rodeo.
Friends have encouraged others to remember Franco by embracing the positive way she lived her life and by making the most of every moment.
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A Developing Story
Franco’s death has left her family, teammates, friends and the wider college rodeo community grieving.
The exact circumstances surrounding the accident have not been publicly disclosed, and officials have not released details about the injuries she sustained.
For now, the rodeo community is remembering a young athlete whose life was cut tragically short.
