Rodeo News

Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo 2024

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April showers bring May flowers, but that’s not all the warmer weather and longer days bring us! Say hello to spring, it’s time to rodeo!  

Image Courtesy of Cowboy Lifestyle Network

Named the “Best Small Town in Rodeo” by True West Magazine in 2011, Payson, Arizona lives up to the hype. Famous for the “World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo” hosted each year in August, Payson Pro Rodeo is also proud to present a springtime rodeo that garners thousands of rodeo fans from all across Arizona and beyond, The Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo

Image Courtesy of Cowboy Lifestyle Network

Honoring Local’s Legacy

Previously a rodeo on the National Old-Timers Rodeo Association circuit, Payson’s springtime event became known as the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo in 1987, honoring the legacy of Payson’s very own Gary Hardt. Known for his talents in the arena as a bull rider and roper, Hart shared his love of rodeo throughout his career, even becoming a dedicated member of the Rodeo Cowboys Association. With Hardt’s legacy in mind, proceeds from the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo benefit local youth who have achieved a variety of educational and athletic successes. 

Gary Hardt | Image Courtesy of Payson Pro Rodeo

35 Years Strong of Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo

2024 marks year 35 of the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo. With years of experience providing the best-of-the-best rodeo action, The Payson Pro Rodeo Committee is proud to bring the heat to the arena this May 17th and 18th.

Rodeo Legends Derrick Begay & Charlie Sampson with Cowboy Lifestyle Network Co-Founder OD

It’s Rodeo Time!

This PRCA Rodeo includes all of the rodeo events you know and love. From barrels to bulls to broncs and breakaway, The Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo has a little something for all rodeo fans to enjoy. Kicking off the weekend is the Women’s Cactus Series Barrel Racing on Thursday, May 16th. Audience members receive free admission with the donation of a canned food item. Gates open at 5 pm.

Image Courtesy of Cowboy Lifestyle Network

Thursday, May 16th, 2024

Women’s Cactus Series Barrel Racing

  • Gates Open: 5:00 pm | Performance begins a 6:00 pm
  • Admission: (1) can of food
Image Courtesy of Cowboy Lifestyle Network

Friday, May 17th, 2024

Tough Enough to Wear Pink Night – Make sure to wear your pink rodeo gear in support of breast cancer awareness. Proceeds from this evening’s ticket sales will benefit local breast cancer charities.

  • Gates Open: 5:00 pm | Performance begins at 7:00 pm
  • Parking Fee: $10.00
Image Courtesy of Cowboy Lifestyle Network

Saturday, May 18th, 2024

Special Patriot Performance Night – All active military receive free admission to this evening’s performance. Make sure to wear red, white, and blue in honor of current and past members of the armed services. 

  • Gates open at 5:00 pm | Performance begins at 7:00 pm
  • Parking Fee: $10.00
Image Courtesy of Cowboy Lifestyle Network

Ticket Pricing

  • Adults (13 & Up) – $20.00
  • Children (8-12) – $10.00
  • Children 7 and under – FREE
Taryn Cantrell

Taryn Cantrell is an Arizona native who has spent many hours in the rodeo arena. Having grown up barrel racing, serving as the 2017 Gilbert Days Rodeo Queen and as a member of the Cowgirls Historical Foundation, Taryn is passionate about her western heritage and all things rodeo. When she’s not on horseback, Taryn can be found playing her bass guitar, painting, and performing around Phoenix with her band. Taryn is a graduate of Arizona State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Vocal Performance. Taryn is proud to combine her love of the arts with her love of rodeo and has been honored to sing The National Anthem at various rodeos across the beautiful state of Arizona. Alongside her love for art and music, preserving her western heritage and promoting the sport of rodeo are just two of Taryn’s many passions. Taryn is so honored to share her love of rodeo with Cowboy Lifestyle Network’s wonderful audience.

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