In the middle of the Payson Event Center in Payson, Arizona, cowboy enthusiasts and spectators of all ages gathered to witness some of the toughest riders in rodeo today during the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo. Reflecting on the rich history of Payson’s Spring Rodeo, it is only necessary to honor Gary Hardt who passed away in 1987. Gary Hardt was a very talented bull rider and a well-known roper throughout the Southwest region. That same year, the community supported the Payson native that lived and loved the cowboy lifestyle and named the Payson Spring Rodeo the “Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo” in loving memory of this true cowboy. The Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) sanctions this very special rodeo; furthermore, the memorial event benefits local youth with athletic and educational accomplishments.
Fan favorite bullfighter Luke Krout
Cowboy Lifestyle Network was thrilled to attend the 2013 Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo this past month. Fan favorite bullfighter Luke Krout and rodeo announcer Rob Smets took the Payson Spring Rodeo by storm this year, which engaged the energetic audience even more than before. Meanwhile, rodeo participants showed their tenaciously rugged skills as they battled head to head for the top performance of the evening; while at the same time, trying to avoid beat downs and hang-ups.
Rodeo announcer Rob Smets
From barrel racing to tie down and from bareback riding to the bull riding, the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo was a complete success this year. Certainly, all of this wouldn’t be possible without the rodeo announcers, staff, participants, judges, bullfighters, bulldoggers, rodeo clowns, sports medicine team, sponsors, rodeo queens, volunteers and finally, you—the fans. Special thanks to our supporters of Rodeo: Coors Light, Boot Barn, Wrangler, Walmart, Coors Light RV and Cooper Tires. Without further adieu, take a look at all the action that was captured by CLN and don’t forget to click on and hang on!
Cowboy enthusiasts and spectators of all ages gathered to witness some of the toughest riders in rodeo today during the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo.
The Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) sanctions the Payson’s Spring Rodeo from barrel racing to bull riding and from tie down to steer wrestling
Everything from bronc riding to tie down at the PRCA Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo 2013 in Payson, AZ
The memorial event benefits local youth with athletic and educational accomplishments.
Calf roping at the PRCA Payson Spring Rodeo in Arizona
Barrel Racing bustin at PRCA Payson Spring Rodeo 2013 in Payson, AZ
Bull Riding at PRCA Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo 2013 in Payson, AZ
Steer wrestling at PRCA Payson Spring Rodeo 2013 in Payson, AZ
Mutton bustin at PRCA Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo 2013 in Payson, AZ
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.
