Payson Spring Rodeo Gary Hardt Memorial 2018

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Taking place in Payson, Arizona, the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo 2018 will be held May 17th through May 19th at the Payson Multi-Event Center. This spring Payson rodeo is one you will not want to miss. It’s a PRCA event filled with excitement, action and fun for the whole family.
Rodeo History
The Payson Rodeo is known as the World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo. The first rodeo in Payson was organized by Abraham Henson Meadows, who became known as “Arizona Charlie” Meadows (1860-1962) and John Collins Chilson (1867-1924). In August of 1884, the first Payson Rodeo took place. It was held at what is now Sawmill Crossing. Horse racing, bronc riding and the roping event as well as some silver dollar pitching were the first held events.
1987 was the year in which the spring rodeo in Payson became the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo, to memorialize the passing of Gary Hardt. A talented roper of recognition, Hardt was skilled in bull-riding as well.
Some of the PRCA events will include:
Barrel Racing
Bareback Bronc Riding
Muttin’ Bustin’
Steer Roping
Bull Riding
Saddle Bronc Riding
Team Roping

Buy tickets online or at the gate. Admission is :
$14 General
$12 Seniors 65+
$10 Children 7-11
Free-Children under 7
Free-Active Military
At the gate, Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children. Tickets can be purchased locally:
The Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
Bob’s Western Wear
Circle K, Star Valley
Circle K’s in Payson
Charities
The Payson Pro Rodeo Committee donated $500 to Donnie Smith and $1000 to the Senior Center. $2000 was donated to the Reaching Out Breast Cancer Support Group as well.
Things to Do in Payson
After or before the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo, hike to Mongollon Rim or see Tonto Natural bridge. Mountain biking trails as well as hiking are in the area. Go fishing or bring binoculars for great bird-watching.
The Media team covering this PRCA rodeo is Cowboy Lifestyle Network, Ak-Chin Indian Community, Earnhardt Auto Centers and Papa John’s Road Team. Cowboy Lifestyle Network is the leading online source and community for everything Western and Country.[/vc_column_text][vc_masonry_media_grid grid_id=”vc_gid:1525218406437-081369b4-12cc-4″ include=”42409,42410,42411,42412,42413,42414″][vc_single_image image=”27253″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” >

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 American Heart Association, the Boys & Girls Club, Chandler Compadres, Horses Help, Harris Brothers Charity Foundation, and Darkhorse Benefits and Operation Guardian (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.