43rd Annual Cowboy Downhill in Steamboat Springs

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]The exciting Cowboy Downhill takes place every year in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The unusual event gives rodeo fans the chance to see the country’s top Western athletes confront challenges that force them out of their element, as they compete in unique slalom events. On January 16, 2017, PRCA Pro Rodeo cowboys, cowgirls and rodeo royalty ski and snowboard down the course to the finish line. The popular winter event conveniently coincides with the 2017 Denver Stock Show Rodeo.
The Cowboy Downhill
Forty-three years ago, PRCA PRO Rodeo legends Billy Kidd and Larry Mahan had the idea of bringing Western athletes together for a fun-filled event that would entail competing in traditional winter sports combined with western events. Since that time, more than 100 cowboys, cowgirls and rodeo queens attend the games in Steamboat Springs. All professional cowboys, cowgirls and bull riding members planning on competing in the 2017 Denver Rodeo qualify for the downhill challenge.
However, this is no normal downhill slalom race. The event begins at 1:00 P.M. on Monday, as pairs of rodeo competitors ski or snowboard while navigating through the flagged course, stop and lasso a lady, saddle a horse and then race to the finish line. Additionally, each participant must wear chaps and a Western hat. Following the first timed event, all of the athletes race the downhill slalom simultaneously during the Stampede Event. The first cowboy or cowgirl to cross the finish line wins. Considering many of the PRCA Pro Rodeo competitors come from states that never see snow, let along enjoy winter sports, the Cowboy Downhill makes for a humorous and entertaining spectator sport.
Additional Activities
On Sunday, January 15, all are invited to witness the hot air balloons glow as they rise into the sky at the ski area base. The launch begins at 5:00 P.M. From 5:30 to 10:00 P.M. on Sunday night, the Bear River Bar & Grill will be hosting the Cowboy Up Party.
On Monday, following the Stampede, guests are welcome to attend the Free Bud Light Concert, which will include performances by Walker McGuire. An awards ceremony and banquet will take place at 7:00 P.M. at the top of the gondola.
Media Coverage
The Cowboy Lifestyle Network along with the Ak-Chin Indian Community, Earnhardt Auto Centers and Papa John’s Pizza Road Team plan on covering the action of the 2017 Cowboy Downhill in Steamboat Springs in addition to the unfolding events at the annual Denver Stock Show and Rodeo.
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Last Updated on 01/05/2020 by Aaron Kuhl

About the Author:

Aaron Kuhl

Biography:

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.

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