2017 Gary Hardt Memorial Payson Pro Rodeo

Written by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Known as “Arizona’s Coolest Town,” Payson is the place to be for cowboys and cowgirls who love great rodeo competition that also helps numerous causes in the community.  The 2017 Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo, scheduled for May 18-20 at the Payson Event Center, promises to be a Payson rodeo that fans who attend will remember for years to come.  Held in memory of renowned bull rider and team roper Gary Hardt, the event helps to not only preserve Gary’s memory for future rodeo fans, but also raises funds to assist numerous local organizations. 

Earnhardt Auto Center’s No Bull Customs

Media Coverage

Due to the popularity and importance of this Payson rodeo, the media coverage is always quite extensive.  With its interviews, videos, and behind-the-scenes information that fans crave, the Cowboy Lifestyle Network will give fans everything they want and much more.  In addition to CLN, other media coverage will be provided by the Ak-Chin Indian Community, Earnhardt Auto Centers, and Papa John’s Road Team, guaranteeing fans will get plenty of excitement at every turn.

Nightly Events

Since this rodeo is so popular, there are a variety of events that showcase the talents of those participating in the 2017 Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo.  Among the most popular are:

  • Barrel Racing
  • Bull Riding
  • Team Roping
  • Bareback Riding
  • Saddle Bronc Riding
  • Steer Wrestling

With these and other events on the schedule each night, this Payson rodeo is a real crowd-pleaser.

Special Nights

As with any great rodeo, the 2017 Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo will have some very special nights.  One of the most important will be on Friday, May 19, when it will be Tough Enough to Wear Pink night, where everyone will be coming together to wipe out cancer.  And the following night on May 20, fans will be treated to the Patriotic Performance, which will honor wounded and fallen veterans.

Derrick Begay, Charlie Sampson and Patrick “OD” O’Donnell

Ticket Information

Like many other rodeos, the 2017 Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo will be one Payson rodeo that fans won’t be available to stay from each night.  And to make the rodeo even easier for people to attend, ticket prices will reflect this so that a variety of people can attend.  Ticket prices are very affordable, with adult tickets costing only $16.  Seniors can attend for only $14, while kids ages 8-12 cost only $10.  And as an added bonus, kids under age seven can be admitted free, as can active military personnel. 

Things to Do in Payson

Along with the rodeo, fans can also do plenty of other things while in Payson.  Various campgrounds are nearby, as are plenty of hiking trails.  And for those who want to stay inside, they can enjoy a day of fun at an area casino, where they may win some additional spending money.  So if all this sounds good to you, plan on attending the 2017 Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo on May 18-20.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_masonry_media_grid grid_id=”vc_gid:1495295161020-6e0d3d09-a009-9″ include=”34083,34084,34085,34086,34087,34088,34089,34090,34082,34081,34080″][vc_single_image image=”27253″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” >

Aaron Kuhl

Aaron Kuhl is a passionate advocate for the western lifestyle, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN). Growing up as an Arizona native, with a mother who worked for Wrangler Western for over 30 years, Aaron was immersed in the cowboy culture from a young age. Aaron and his sister Heather grew up watching rodeos, as their grandfather and uncle were PRCA ProRodeo cardholders. This early exposure has given him a profound understanding and appreciation for the western way of life. Aaron went to Corona del Sol High School in Tempe, AZ, then to the University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ, where he received a Bachelor of Science after creating his own major. This unique course of study wove together Business Marketing, Geography, Sociology, Philosophy, and Religion. After graduating from the University of Arizona, Aaron joined CLN in its nascent stages, contributing to its growth and development over the past decade. As COO, Aaron manages operations, using AI to streamline processes and analyze data, ensuring CLN remains a leading voice. With expertise in business development, he innovates and cultivates client relationships, supporting CLN’s exponential growth. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Aaron values his faith, family, and friends, which are the cornerstones of his life. This personal foundation, combined with his professional expertise, makes him a trusted and authoritative voice in the western lifestyle community. Aaron’s commitment to philanthropy is the bedrock of his personal ethos. He actively supports local Arizona organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club, Chandler Compadres, Horses Help, Harris Brothers Charity Foundation, and the American Heart Association (among others), reflecting his dedication to giving back and strengthening the community he calls home. Through his work, Aaron aims to preserve and promote the traditions of the west, ensuring that the spirit of the cowboy lives on for future generations.

Recent Posts

International Finals Youth Rodeo 2025

The International Finals Youth Rodeo is back and better than ever in Shawnee, OK, this… Read More

17 hours ago

Livingston Roundup Rodeo 2025

The Fourth of July is right around the corner, and you know what that means:… Read More

1 day ago

Unforgettable Power: The Cody Jesus Invitational Bull Riding Returns

Window Rock, Arizona - Create unforgettable memories and connect with the heart of bull riding!… Read More

3 days ago

Red, White & Boots at Rio: Your Ultimate Fourth of July Weekend in Las Vegas

If you’re looking for a Fourth of July celebration with high-energy country music, poolside parties,… Read More

3 days ago

The Hondo Rodeo Fest: Arizona’s Ultimate Rodeo Showdown

The desert sun isn’t the only thing heating up Arizona this year! The Hondo Rodeo… Read More

3 days ago

Charlie Sampson Open Rodeo: A Legacy of Grit, A Day of Thrills

Norco, California - Experience an unforgettable evening of rodeo excellence at the inaugural Charlie Sampson… Read More

4 days ago