It hasn’t taken Randy Schaapman long to leave his mark on collegiate rodeo.

The 2008 Sierra High graduate won the bull riding competition at the Gillette College Rodeo in Gillette, Wyo., last week. A freshman at Lamar Community College (Colo.), Schaapman highlighted an up-and-down performance by the Runnin’ Lopes.

He was one of three to place, including Brooke Smith and Dylan Wahlert. Smith finished first in the first round of goat tying, while Wahlert was fifth in the first round of bareback riding.

Their accomplishments were offset by a rash of injuries, as rodeo once again reminded all comers of its dangers.

“Injuries plagued us,” Lamar Community College coach Fred Sherwood said. “Brooke sprained her ankle and could not compete in the short round, and Brie Norton broke her arm.”

Schaapman, who was awarded a leather-bound day planner for his victory, and the Runnin’ Lopes will return to the rodeo ring April 4-6 in Torrington, Wyo.

Lamar competes on the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.