Who is Ted Hawkins from Shaking the Nickel Bush and what is their importance?

Ted Hawkins is an old cowboy. He once worked in the same Colorado town where Ralph's family used to have a ranch. Ted is working on a Wickenburg film set, a gang leader for the fall riders. He helps Ralph out by showing him how the film crew makes the ponies fall and giving him tips on how to make the falls without injuring himself. Ted's advice enables Ralph to make thirteen falls and a good amount of money.