Five Questions With: Chris Manning, Bull-Riding EMT

Chris Manning is an EMT in Iowa with a passion for bull riding and for promoting the emotional well-being of EMS providers. EMS World sat down with Manning to discuss his background and his mission to spread awareness of what he feels is a crisis facing first responders.

EMS World: Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and describe your background and current role in EMS?

Manning: My name is Chris Manning and I ride bulls in the World Senior Professional Bull Riders. WSPBR is a group of bull riders aged 35 and up that hold events in Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, and Arkansas. I am trained in fire as well as EMS. Through my riding I am trying to raise awareness of mental illness among our first responders—primarily post-traumatic stress. I currently serve as an EMT and plan to pursue my paramedic license.

How did you get involved in bull riding, and what does your company do?

I got involved with bull riding at a young age. My father rode and fought bulls in the 1960s. I kept it in the family. I ride to support fire and EMS because I feel they get overlooked. My company Redline Rodeo Productions hosts events and sells merchandise to raise money for fallen first responders.

What is a typical day like for you?

I work full time at a mental health center in Osceola, Iowa. When I'm not working I see a personal trainer and train as much as possible, whether it be training my body such as getting on stock or using training objects, or working on the mental side of things. I also believe in family support so I spend as much time with my son and girlfriend as I can. They are my biggest supporters.

Why do you feel mental resilience among first responders is a critical mission, and how are you helping to raise awareness?

Mental illness is becoming a problem all around the country. There are resources out there for veterans, so I am hoping to help raise awareness for first responders. Post-traumatic stress is a real problem among fire and EMS, along with police and dispatch. I want to be there when they think they have no one—and with help maybe we can cut down the numbers of suicides in our ranks.

How can readers lend their support?

I am looking for sponsors to help me get the message out. I plan to wear the logos of anyone who sponsors me on my gear in any event I participate in. I would encourage anyone to contact me at redlinerodeo119@gmail.com or through Facebook on my personal page or Redlinerodeo119. They can also reach me by phone or text at 641-980-5041. They can lend support by sponsoring me or helping me with travel, event entries, lodging and other costs. Thank you for your time.