The Gary Hardt Memorial Pro Rodeo Set for Its 33rd Year!

The 33rd Annual Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo takes place on Friday and Saturday, May 20 and 21 at the Payson Multi-Event Center on Highway 87 across from the Mazatzal Casino.

Over 200 professional rodeo contestants are expected to compete in this year’s event. Performances start at 7:00 PM each evening and the gates open at 5:00 PM for some pre-rodeo entertainment! PRE-SALE Tickets for adults 12 to 64 are $16.00, seniors $14.00 & children 8 to 12 $10.00 – 7 and under are free. All active military admitted at no charge.

Friday night is the “Tough Enough to Wear Pink performance, where cowboys and fans alike wear pink to help local breast cancer support groups. For all wearing pink, one dollar per fan and $3.00 per contestant are donated to the local groups. Salt River Rodeo, with some of the top bulls and bucking stock in the West is the stock contractor.

Tickets may be purchased online at www.paysonprorodeo.com or Pre-Sale tickets may be purchased at Bob’s Western Wear in Payson. Tickets will be available also at the gate. For added information visit: www.paysonprorodeo.com or call – 928-295-8109

History of the Gary Hardt Memorial Pro Rodeo

Previously known as the Payson Spring Rodeo, the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo was renamed to honor Gary Hardt, a Payson native, who passed away in 1987. Hardt was widely recognized for being a talented bull rider and roper. The memorial event not only pays respects to Hardt but also benefits the local youth through educational and athletic achievements. Previously known as the Payson Spring Rodeo, the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo was renamed to honor Gary Hardt, a Payson native, who passed away in 1987. Hardt was widely recognized for being a talented bull rider and roper. The memorial event not only pays respects to Hardt but also benefits the local youth through educational and athletic achievements.

Last Updated on 03/12/2025 by Patrick OD O’Donnell

About the Author:

Patrick OD O'Donnell

Biography:

The moment a bull's gate swings open—that's when Patrick "OD" O'Donnell feels most alive. From his early days riding bareback through Arizona pastures to revolutionizing the bull riding industry as President of Bull Riders Only, OD has lived the Western lifestyle he now champions as Founder of Cowboy Lifestyle Network. Growing up in Casa Grande's sunbaked agricultural heartland, he didn't just learn about horses and ranching, he lived it daily, developing the instincts and grit that would later attract 4 million followers to CLN's authentic voice.

After his baseball days at the University of Arizona, OD saw something others missed: bull riding wasn't just a sport, but was compelling entertainment waiting for the right vision. Between 1990-1997, his leadership transformed local rodeo competitions into sold-out arena events that changed Western sports forever. Today, that same pioneering spirit drives CLN's coverage of everything from championship rodeos to the quiet heroism of ranch life. When he's not building the digital home for cowboy culture, you'll find OD supporting Harris Brothers Charity Foundation, leading CLN’s 25-year Christmas Toy Drive for Arizona kids, or sharing his love of horsemanship with special needs riders through Arizona's own Horses Help. Living proof that authentic Western values still have the power to transform lives.

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