Learn About Rodeo

What is the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association PRCA?

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The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) is the largest American rodeo organization in the world. Did you know it boasts 650 events every year in 38 American states and 4 Canadian provinces?

Impressive, right?

The history of PRCA reflects the spirit of struggle that was required to tame the untamed of a rodeo rider.

Sunday July 30th 2017 PRCA Short Go Cheyenne WY. Photo By Ric Andersen Photos © 2017. Photo Purchase and Credit must be given on all uses and publications.

It traces itself all the way back to 1936 when a group of cowboys went on strike. Long story short, the strike was successful and seeing the results of banding together, they established an institution of sorts. It existed all the way up to 1945 after which it was converted into the PRCA.

The PRCA is the definitive representation of the sport of rodeo, a legacy and intrinsic part of what we call Americana. It allows generations now to see how America was built on the back and efforts of cowboys and broncos past.

Photo: Gretchen Kirchmann / Kirchmann Media Group – Miles Jones high flying bullfighter at Minnesota Horse Expo & Barnes PRCA Rodeo

The PRCA holds a number of championship events like ProRodeo Tour, All-American ProRodeo Series and Xtreme Bulls but the main event of the association, its very own vaunted super bowl is the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR).

Thomas And Mack Center WNFR 2018 Las Vegas

Taking place for 10-12 days straight in Las Vegas, Nevada, there is no bigger celebration of rodeo than this. Rodeo riders and cowboys compete in all kinds of sports for a chance to bag the grand prize of 10 million USD and title of PRCA World Champion.

There are 7 rodeo sports the PRCA recognizes and holds various competitions for, tie-down roping, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling and team roping.

These activities are what form the essence of what is called rodeo and which millions of people flock to see to attempt to recapture some memories of the good ol’ days.

Danny O'Donnell

As the co-founder of Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN) Cowboy Lifestyle Network - now a western media powerhouse with over 4 million fans, Danny has become a trusted voice in rodeo culture, horse care, and Western traditions. CLN’s success is no accident; it’s built on Danny’s deep understanding of the Western way of life-its values, people, and economic engine. His work connects brands, events, and fans across a thriving industry, from the Rodeo Scottsdale to the Super Bowl Party Trophy Bar. Danny’s journey from Arizona ranch life to Western media trailblazer is rooted in authenticity, grit, and community. Danny’s passion started early, shaped by eight years in Pinal County’s 4-H program, where he raised lambs and learned ranching hands-on. At Arizona State University, he became a division 1 collegiate diver, team captain, and earned a B.S. degree - fueling his entrepreneurial spirit. After a decade of corporate management experience, he launched CLN with his brother Patrick to amplify the voice of the Western community. "Giving back has always mattered to me," Danny shares. His ongoing support for Horses Help, Harris Brothers Charity Foundation, and a 25-year CLN Christmas Toy Drive speaks volumes. Through action, Danny has built not just a brand, but a legacy of trust and impact in the Western world.

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Tags: Roping

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