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!

Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo
May 16th – May 18th, 2024
Payson Event Center
1400 S Beeline Highway, Payson, AZ 85541

***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.

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS HERE!

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.

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

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

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

Ticket Pricing

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

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS HERE!

Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo
May 16th – May 18th, 2024
Payson Event Center
1400 S Beeline Highway, Payson, AZ 85541

Taryn Cantrell

Taryn Cantrell is an Arizona native with a lifelong connection to the rodeo arena. From her roots in barrel racing to her role as the 2017 Gilbert Days Rodeo Queen and her involvement with the Cowgirls Historical Foundation, Taryn celebrates her western heritage with enthusiasm and authenticity. Taryn holds a degree in Vocal Performance from Arizona State University, allowing her to merge her passion for music with her love of cowboy culture. As a singer and bassist, Taryn performs with bands across Phoenix and beyond including Great American Regret, Honey Marie Knight, and Sareena Dominguez. Taryn is passionate about blending her diverse interests to offer an authentic and engaging perspective on journalism. Her goal is to connect readers to the events, concerts, and celebrations that matter most, bringing them closer to the experiences she treasures. Whether you’re attending your very first rodeo or adding another to your collection of memories, Taryn is here to guide you every step of the way!