French Flash Hawk “Bozo” Inducted into ProRodeo Hall of Fame

By Jolee Jordan

With his big blazed face, French Flash Hawk, known as Bozo, was one of the most recognized athletes in pro rodeo in his time, a champion in the arena who touched off a revolution in barrel racing bloodlines.

Purchased as a 2-year-old by Kristie Peterson for $400, Bozo stormed the rodeo world in 1993, nearly upsetting the legends Charmayne James and Scamper in their 10th championship year.

After finishing a close second in 1993, Peterson and Bozo won the first of four WPRA World titles in 1994. The duo won three more world titles (1996-1998), three reserve world titles (1993, 1995, 1999), five consecutive National Finals Rodeo average titles (1994-98), and four Dodge (now Ram) National Circuit Finals Rodeo titles (1992, 1994-95, 98).

In a feat unsurpassed to this day, Peterson and Bozo went two years at the NFR without missing a check (1996-1997); in fact, Bozo placed in 22 consecutive rounds from 1995 to 1997, missed a check in the first round of 1998, then rattled off another 17 straight.

Bozo was voted AQHA Horse of the Year five times (1995-1999) and WPRA’s Horse With the Most Heart four times (1995-1998).

By the stallion Sun Frost out of Caseys Charm, Bozo’s accuracy on the pattern had breeders seeking out his bloodlines. Two sons of Sun Frost, Frenchmans Guy and PC Frenchmans Hayday, have become household names.

Peterson retired the gelding not long after winning her third RodeoHouston title in 2003.

On May 4, 2016 at the age of 29, Bozo died peacefully at their home in Texas. Bozo will be remembered for the heart and determination that enabled his remarkable achievements.

World Championships: 4 world titles – 1994, 1996-98 Barrel Racing

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