Drumroll, please! The Payson Pro Rodeo, also known as the World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo, is about to turn the heat up in Arizona if that’s even possible! Celebrating 136 continuous years of running in 2019, the Payson Pro Rodeo has received numerous accolades since its inception, including being named the “Best Small Town Rodeo” by True West Magazine in 2011. It’s easy to see why this rodeo has earned a place in the hearts of many fans through the years. Continue reading to learn more about the World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo!
History
Organized by “Arizona Charlie” Meadows and John Collins Chilson, the 1st Payson Rodeo kicked-off on the third weekend of August in 1884. The purpose of the rodeo at the time was for cowboys and ranchers to come together to see who the top-hand was, just like most typical ranch rodeos of the day. There weren’t chutes or any fancy equipment in the earliest days of rodeo, and bronc riders usually brought their own broncs to ride. Quite a lot has changed to turn the Payson Pro Rodeo from what it was in its earliest days to the famous rodeo that it is now!
Payson Pro Rodeo
Year after year, some of the world’s greatest professional rodeo athletes make their way to the Payson Pro Rodeo to compete for a part of the over $50,000 purse! The rodeo includes all of the standard events: barrel racing, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, tie-down roping, team roping, steer wrestling, and bull riding. Performances will start at 7 pm, August 16th-17th. Tickets can be purchased online at paysonprorodeo.com.
Events & Entertainment
If you’re traveling to Payson for the rodeo, consider going up a few days early so you can explore the town and partake in other events the rodeo has to offer, including the Official Rodeo Kickoff at Mazatzal Hotel & Casino, WPRA barrel racing, the Annual Payson Pro Rodeo Boots and Bling Rodeo Dance, and the rodeo parade.
Photo by Jonathan Eggers (Coors Light RV – Hollywood’s Productions)
The Cowboy Lifestyle Network team will be out at the Payson Pro Rodeo 2019 in full-force, so be sure to crack open a cold Coors Light and come say hi to the team at the rodeo!
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