Tony Gray knew that his life had a greater purpose. He had grown up a Christian, a military kid, an FFA leader and one tough boy who hitch-hiked to rodeos as a 12-year-old to ride bareback bronc horses. He later learned how to train horses using ground-breaking methods in equine psychology and trained countless kids through the founding of a local roping club alongside being a mentor for his daughter, Brandy Gray, and other 4-H, TYRA and National High School Rodeo Association members. As his team roping career continued and his faith strengthened, he felt a calling to use his experiences to serve. After sharing this vision with his family and friends, they eagerly committed to contributing and the race was on! Like a rodeo event, they were dedicated to the preparation, time, sacrifice and endurance it would take to make this a run they could be proud of.

Our Future

God certainly gave us each gifts to us for His glory! In our case, He also gave us the next two generations with a heart for ministry and continuing Tony’s legacy.

If we’ve all learned anything from team roping, it’s that it takes skill on both ends. With two successful businessmen on our team as well, Mike Wendlandt and Jason Kyser, we’ll be in the short go soon. Here’s a look at the 3 divisions of growth for 4:13 Ranch:

Tony purchased 106 acres outside of Stephenville, Texas to establish the 4:13 Ranch. With the help of generous donors, the operation will include a covered arena, horse barn, guest cabins, a chapel, a recreational/dining hall, and cattle pens.

By partnering with his contacts in the rodeo community, 4:13 will host guest speakers to share their testimonies and lessons learned in the arena sand. Quarterly events will also serve to encourage involvement from the surrounding agriculture and livestock leaders.

At full function anticipated 2024, 4:13 will grow our team to include a Certified Equine Therapist and faith-filled rodeo experienced small group leaders. We will host an average 0f 30 kids each week during the summer who will rotate in small groups to various activities. During the Spring and Fall, we will rotate between 2-day family camps, 4-day veteran retreats and 4-day caregiver retreats.