What is the Ozark Junior Rodeo Association (OJRA)?

Written by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Ozark Junior Rodeo Association (OJRA) is a rodeo association that brings together kids from all over the area to participate in a variety of engaging rodeo events. It is designed to encourage all kids to participate in the rodeo on a competitive level, featuring educational opportunities and group events that can help kids develop their confidence and coordination. It can be a great way for kids to make new friends, compete with the best and develop a passion for the sport.

What Makes it Unique

The Ozark Junior Rodeo Association is a cornerstone in the local community. It features an exciting array of events that can help a younger audience discover thrilling possibilities and pursuits. It is one of the largest organizations in the region and people from all over the country flock to learn more about the group’s activities and how they can participate. Sponsors regularly contact the leaders to work out deals that can help the entire community grow.

The Association’s History

Much like any close-knit community, the Ozark Junior Rodeo Association was started by two individuals passionate about what they do. The group began in the 1970s, created by Dusty Richards and Pat Hutter. Over 140 participants call this organization their own and the group provides all kids with the opportunity to compete at a state level. It is recognized the whole country over as one of the most prestigious associations that kids can join, with some participants even able to cultivate their talents to compete at a national level.

The Top Events

The group’s events are divided into three categories according to age. The “Eight and Under” category features co-ed barrels, calf riding, poles and goat tying.
The “Junior” category is designed for kids between the ages of 9 and 13, and it features more advanced barrels and poles, stock riding, breakaway rope, team roping, and goat tying.
Finally, the “Seniors” category is made for kids between the ages of 14 and 18. This group showcases the most advanced events of team roping, bareback riding, bull riding, bull dogging, and goat tying.

The Royalty

From Left to Right: Kaycee Maxwell, Kileigh Rein Meridith and Kalleigh Jo Shreve

The association also features a royalty program that celebrates exemplary participants in the group’s events.
The current royalty members are the OJRA Queen, the OJRA Princess, and the OJRA Sweetheart. These titles belong to Kaycee Maxwell, Kileigh Rein Meridith, and Kalleigh Jo Shreve, respectively.
All participants are encouraged to do their best to have a chance to become a member of the royalty.

[button size=medium style=less_round color=red align=none url=”http://www.ojrarodeo.org/uploads/3/1/1/3/3113292/ojra_revised_2015_membership.pdf”]Click for 2015 MEMBERSHIP PACKETS (PDF)[/button]

[button size=medium style=less_round color=red align=none url=”http://www.ojrarodeo.org/uploads/3/1/1/3/3113292/liability_form_1.pdf”]Click for 2015 RELEASE OF LIABILITY FORM[/button]

[button size=medium style=less_round color=red align=none url=”http://www.ojrarodeo.org/uploads/3/1/1/3/3113292/2015_ojra_rodeo_schedule_official.pdf”]Click for 2015 RODEO SCHEDULE (PDF)[/button]

[button size=medium style=less_round color=red align=none url=”http://www.ojrarodeo.org/forms–downloads.html”]Click for 2015 ORDER OF EVENTS[/button]

[button size=medium style=less_round color=red align=none url=”http://www.ojrarodeo.org/uploads/3/1/1/3/3113292/business_sponsorship_revised.pdf”]Click for BUSINESS SPONSORSHIP FORM (PDF)[/button]

[button size=medium style=less_round color=red align=none url=”http://www.ojrarodeo.org/uploads/3/1/1/3/3113292/ojra_2015_official_rule_book_2-25.pdf”]Click for 2015 RULE BOOK (PDF)[/button]

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][rev_slider alias=”sponsors1″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Aaron Kuhl

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.