A Taste of Grit

In better times: Jimmy "Stretch" Borunda, 30, a bull rider from El Paso, Texas, prepares for his event at the Del Rio Rodeo on July 7, 2007. He went on to win the bull riding competition. Amateur bull riders across Texas compete in small-town rodeos where their sport is often the highlight of the night. Bull riders risk life and limb for rewards of around $1,000 for the winner, and they often claim to have riding "in their blood." From the series: "Thirst for Grit - Rodeo Bull Riders."

Picture of Stretch from a good time: Texan Jimmy "Stretch" Borunda, 30, rides a bull for eight seconds and goes on to win at the Del Rio, Texas, rodeo on July 7, 2007. Amateur bull riders across Texas compete in small-town rodeos where camraderie and risk are the way of life. From the series: "Thirst for Grit - Rodeo Bull Riders."

At a typical small-town bull riding rodeo: Spectators and participants watch under the arena lights at the Mason, Texas, rodeo on July 14, 2007.

Friends visit Stretch Borunda in the ICU.