Fun in the Sun at Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo 2013 in Payson, AZ

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.

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.

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!