Jay Ellerman grew up a cowboy. From a young age he worked on ranches and in feedlots training horses and working cattle with his dad, horse trainer and silversmith Carl. As his passion for the western way of life grew he became a Rodeo cowboy and horseman working with greats like Benny Gatron and Bob Avila. He would go on to make five National Finals Rodeo (NFR) appearances with Bobby Harris, Walt Woodard, Rich Skelton, JD Yates, and Jay Wadhams. He has won major titles including several circuit championships, Dodge National Finals Rodeo Champion, the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, and the US Open Tour Finale Champion.


Beyond the rodeo arena, Jay is an AQHA World Champion showman, trainer, and helper. He also judges select American Rope Horse Futurity Association shows, including their inaugural event. Jay continues to give back through clinics and lessons, helping people with their horses and roping. A skilled craftsman, he builds and repairs leather projects, and works as a designer for C Slash Bits and Spurs. He also provides consulting services for arenas and properties, bringing his deep knowledge of Western life to a wide range of projects.


Jay is married to Tammy Ellerman and has two children, Brit Ellerman and Taya McAdow, who continue the family’s legacy in rodeo and ranching.