Rodeo News

The American Western Weekend 2024

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Two days of non-stop, back-to-back action, “The Crown Jewel of Rodeo,” is back and better than ever. If you know rodeo, then you know The American Rodeo. Unrivaled in action, entertainment, and energy, this two-day extravaganza has become known as one of the world’s top and most unique rodeo experiences. 

Credit: The American Rodeo

While it may be young in inception, The American’s legacy far surpasses its seniority. Having only debuted in 2014, this rodeo puts both rodeo pros and amateurs alike to the test. Competing in events such as bareback, barrel racing, breakaway roping, bull riding, saddle bronc, steer wrestling, tie-down, and team roping, rodeo athletes and their equine counterparts will compete for a slice of the prize pool.

Credit: Cowboy Lifestyle Network

Calling Arlington, Texas home, The American will make its 9th year debut on March 8th and 9th at the Globe Life Field. How does The American pack so much action into two days? We may never know, but you’ll not want to miss a second of it! Let’s dive in! 

Credit: Cowboy Lifestyle Network

Pro Fantasy Rodeo

You’ll have a chance to compete with the pros, Pro Fantasy Rodeo style! A fusion of tradition and innovation under the spotlight, Pro Fantasy Rodeo, redefines rodeo engagement, offering a blend of live-action and interactive fantasy play. It’s not just an event; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the rodeo culture, enhanced by technology and community spirit. Join us for a celebration that promises to connect, entertain, and inspire fans across the globe.

Credit: Bull Rider Jeff Askey // Photo Courtesy of Pro Fantasy Rodeo

The American Western Weekend

The American is much more than a rodeo. In addition to the high-energy, heart-stopping action in the arena, hundreds of vendors, concessions, concerts, and more, The American is also proud to introduce The American Performance Horseman competition and The American Contender Tournament Finals. 

Credit: Cowboy Lifestyle Network

Friday, March 8th

It’s Friday! And what better way to start your weekend than watching The American Performance Horseman competition. Featuring the top 5 money earning professionals from the National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA,) National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA,) and National Reining Horse Association (NRHA,) the TAPH competition will display the incredible horsemanship and connection between human and equine athlete alike. 15 competitors will compete individually and as part of 5 teams of 3 for a million dollars in prize money. Teams are randomly selected and include one Reiner, one Cutter, and one Reined Cow Horse athlete. 

Following the American Performance Horsemanship competition, the arena will transform and rodeo fans will suddenly become concertgoers! Hitting the stage is five-time Entertainer of the Year and hit country music icon Luke Bryan. Lucky you, the concert entrance is included with your daily ticket purchase to The American! Luke Bryan will be joined by artists Alli Walker and Ghost Hounds.

Full Friday Lineup!

  • 5:30 PM Doors Open – The American Performance Horseman – Globe Life Field
  • 7:00 PM Event Start – The American Performance Horseman
    • Cutting Competition
    • Ghost Hounds Concert following the Cutting Competition
    • The American Performance Horseman Reining Competition
    • The American Performance Horseman Reined Cow Horse Fence Work
    • Alli Walker Concert
    • Awards Ceremony
    • Luke Bryan Concert
Credit: The American Rodeo

Saturday, March 9th

It’s finally time for The American! But how exactly does the richest one-day rodeo in the United States work? Well, let’s put our boots to the dirt and get into it. 

Credit: Cowboy Lifestyle Network

The American specializes in 8 standard rodeo disciplines. Each event contains the top 5 professional athletes from the 2023 National Finals Rodeo as well as 5 contenders who have earned their spot in The American through successfully competing in The American Contender Tournament. The stakes are higher than ever as contenders are eligible for the 1 million dollar Contender Bonus, leaving everyone on the edge of their seats to see who will take home the prize. Country singer Aaron Watson will entertain rodeo fans during the evening’s halftime show. 

Make sure to stick around post-rodeo, Post Malone will take the stage. With over 80 million records sold, Posty will keep you dancin’ all night! 

Credit: The American Rodeo

Full Saturday Lineup!

  • 2:00 pm Doors Open – The American Rodeo – Globe Life Field
  • 3:25 PM Event Start – The American Rodeo – Opening Ceremonies
    • The American Rodeo
    • Contender round of 10
    • Aaron Watson Concert
    • The American Rodeo Championship Round of 4
    • Awards Ceremony
    • Alli Walker Concert
    • Awards Ceremony
    • Post Malone Concert

Tickets & Where to Watch

Don’t worry if you can’t make it to Arlington this round, The American Rodeo Western Weekend will now be presented on Fox Sports. The American Performance Horseman will air on Saturday, March 16 at 11:30 AM ET-1:00 PM ET on FS1. The American Rodeo will air on FOX (main) on Saturday, March 16 from 1:30 PM ET-3:30 PM ET.

Credit: Cowboy Lifestyle Network
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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