Monty "Hawkeye" Henson
Monty Henson, sometimes known as Hawkeye Henson (born October 1953), is a three-time Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association world champion saddle bronc rider.
He was born in Farmersville near Dallas, Texas. He grew up with childhood friend Don Gay. Monty competed in many events as a boy and quickly became a fan favorite. During his rodeo career he won 3 world titles in 1975, 1976, and again in 1982. He won the average at the NFR 4 times. He won or placed at almost every major rodeo in the country. He has been around the world, Rodeoing as well going to rodeos in Europe and Japan.
Known for his flying dismount and infamous eagle feather in his hat, Hawkeye's style and ability have been compared to those of the legendary Casey Tibbs. He qualified for the National Finals Rodeo 14 times. Henson was quoted as saying, “I’m a cowboy. That’s the best thing anybody could say about me. If I could have that on my tombstone – Here lies Hawkeye, a cowboy – then I can die a happy man.”
In 1994, he was inducted in the Prorodeo Hall of Fame. In 2003 he was inducted into the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame in Belton, the seat of Bell County in central Texas.
In 2002, Hawkeye was inducted into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame located in the Fort Worth Stockyards in Fort Worth. Inducted for his rodeo accomplishments, the museum features many of his personal items used during his illustrious rodeo career. These items can only be seen at the museum.
He has appeared in numerous television programs and films. In 2004, he was cast as Hawkeye in four episodes of the HBO series Deadwood alongside Ian McShane, Timothy Olyphant, and Molly Parker.[1] He is also a Country music entertainer. He also still promotes several rodeos across the country.