Charlie Battles was a man of many talents and accomplishments. From his military service to his rodeo career to his business ventures, he left an indelible mark on those who knew him. In this article, we’ll explore the life and legacy of this remarkable individual.
Who Was Charlie Battles?
Charlie Battles was born on July 31, 1942 in Seminole, Oklahoma. He grew up in a family with a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors. From a young age, Charlie showed an interest in horses and the cowboy lifestyle.
As a teenager, Charlie began competing in local rodeos. His natural talent and dedication quickly earned him recognition. In 1962, at the age of 20, Charlie enlisted in the United States Army. He served until 1965, including a stint as an Armor Intelligence Specialist in Germany.
After his military service, Charlie returned to Oklahoma and resumed his rodeo career. He specialized in steer wrestling, also known as bulldogging. This event requires strength, speed, and precision as the cowboy jumps from a running horse onto a steer and wrestles it to the ground.
Charlie excelled at steer wrestling. He won the International Rodeo Association championship in 1968, 1970, and 1971. In 1974, he qualified for the prestigious National Finals Rodeo hosted by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). Competing at the highest level of the sport was a testament to Charlie’s world-class skills.
Early Life and Background
Charlie Battles was born into a hardworking Oklahoma family in 1942. Growing up, he was surrounded by the cowboy culture and developed a passion for horses at a young age. Charlie learned the value of determination and grit, qualities that would serve him well throughout his life.
As a teenager in the late 1950s, Charlie began competing in local rodeos around Oklahoma. His natural athleticism and fearlessness in the arena quickly earned him notice. He honed his skills in various events but especially excelled in steer wrestling.
In 1962, Charlie made the patriotic decision to enlist in the United States Army. After completing basic training, he was assigned as an Armor Intelligence Specialist and deployed to Germany. For three years, Charlie served his country honorably, demonstrating the same commitment and integrity he brought to the rodeo arena.
Upon completing his military service in 1965, Charlie returned home to Oklahoma. With renewed focus, he threw himself back into rodeoing. His hard work and talent quickly paid off. In 1968, Charlie won his first International Rodeo Association steer wrestling championship. It was a pivotal moment that launched him into the upper echelons of the sport.
Charlie Battles: Marriage to Reba McEntire
In 1976, Charlie Battles married country music legend Reba McEntire. At the time, Reba was just beginning her rise to stardom. The two had met at a rodeo event and quickly fell in love. Their marriage would last until 1987. During their time together, Charlie and Reba experienced the highs and lows of life in the spotlight. As Reba’s music career took off, she often spent long stretches on the road touring. Meanwhile, Charlie continued competing on the professional rodeo circuit.
Despite the challenges of their busy careers, Charlie and Reba made their marriage a priority. They supported each other’s dreams and cherished their time together. Reba often spoke about how Charlie kept her grounded amidst the chaos of celebrity.
In interviews, Reba described Charlie as a true cowboy—strong, dependable, and kind. She admired his work ethic and the way he stayed true to his roots. Even as Reba became a household name, Charlie remained her rock.
Throughout their marriage, Charlie and Reba also maintained strong ties to Oklahoma. They purchased a ranch where they could escape the pressures of fame and enjoy the country lifestyle they both loved. The ranch was a special haven where the couple could reconnect with nature and each other.
Although their marriage eventually ended in divorce, Charlie and Reba remained on good terms. They shared many happy memories and a deep respect for one another. In later years, both spoke highly of their time together and the love they shared.
Family Life with Reba McEntire
During his marriage to Reba McEntire, Charlie Battles embraced the role of supportive husband and loving stepfather. Although the couple did not have any children together, Charlie became a father figure to Reba’s son Shelby from a previous marriage.
Charlie and Shelby developed a close bond over their shared love of the cowboy lifestyle. Charlie taught Shelby the ins and outs of rodeo competition and horseback riding. He was a patient and encouraging mentor, always ready with a word of advice or a comforting hug.
Despite the demands of Reba’s skyrocketing music career, Charlie worked hard to keep the family connected. He was the steady presence that Reba and Shelby could always count on. Whether it was attending Shelby’s school events or planning family vacations at the ranch, Charlie made sure his loved ones knew they were his top priority.
Even after his divorce from Reba, Charlie remained a positive influence in Shelby’s life. He continued to offer guidance and support as Shelby grew into a young man. The strong foundation Charlie helped build during those early years left a lasting impact on the entire family.
In later interviews, Reba reflected on Charlie’s role in her personal life during their marriage. She praised his unwavering support and the sacrifices he made to help her chase her dreams. Reba credited Charlie with being her rock during those exciting but sometimes overwhelming years.
Although their paths eventually diverged, it’s clear that Charlie Battles left an indelible mark on Reba McEntire and her family. His love, strength, and dedication helped shape their lives in profound ways. Even after their marriage ended, the positive impact of Charlie’s presence continued to resonate.
Professional Career and Accomplishments
In addition to his rodeo achievements, Charlie Battles also made a name for himself as a successful businessman. In 1995, he established the Charlie Battles PRCA Rodeo Livestock Company. As a stock contractor, Charlie provided high-quality bucking horses and bulls for rodeo events across the country.
Charlie’s livestock company quickly earned a reputation for excellence. He had a keen eye for selecting and training animals that could perform at the highest levels of competition. Many of Charlie’s horses and bulls became fan favorites, known for their power, speed, and bucking ability.
As a stock contractor, Charlie played a crucial role in the success of countless rodeo events. He worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that each animal was healthy, well-cared for, and ready to perform. Charlie’s commitment to the well-being of his livestock was a testament to his deep respect for the animals and the sport.
Over the years, Charlie’s livestock company became a trusted partner for rodeo organizers nationwide. His professionalism, reliability, and dedication to quality set him apart in the industry. Charlie’s contributions helped elevate the sport of rodeo and provided opportunities for countless cowboys to showcase their skills.
Beyond his business success, Charlie also remained active in the rodeo community as a mentor and advocate. He generously shared his knowledge and experience with younger generations of cowboys, offering guidance and encouragement. Charlie understood the challenges of life on the rodeo circuit and was always ready to lend a helping hand.
Throughout his career, Charlie Battles earned numerous accolades and honors. His multiple steer wrestling championships and National Finals Rodeo qualification cemented his place among the greats of the sport. However, Charlie’s true legacy extends far beyond his individual achievements.
Conclusion
Charlie Battles will be remembered as a man who lived life to the fullest, pursuing his passions with unwavering dedication. His impact on the rodeo world, both as a competitor and a stock contractor, will continue to inspire future generations. Charlie’s commitment to excellence, sportsmanship, and the cowboy way of life will forever be a shining example of what it means to be a true rodeo legend.
