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As any cowboy or cowgirl in Arizona who lives near WhiteRiver knows, each September brings with it one of the area’s greatest attractions in the White Mountain Apache Tribal Fair and Rodeo.
This year’s event, which was held on September 2nd, was very special as it celebrated 90 years of great tradition and competition. With media team coverage that included the Cowboy Lifestyle Network, Ak-Chin Indian Community, and the Earnhardt Auto Road Team, the event was truly a unique experience.
With one of the highlights of the event being the presence of Indian National Finals Rodeo announcer Ray Champ, both contestants and spectators were treated to plenty of thrills and spills.
Event History
The White Mountain Apache Tribal Fair and Rodeo, which began in 1925, has always held a special place in the hearts of those living in the WhiteRiver area. The tribe itself, with more than 12,000 members residing on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, is known for its strong beliefs and traditions, all of which have been evident throughout the event’s history. Viewed as a trailblazing event due to the showcase of athleticism and skills of Indian cowboys, it has been credited for helping the tribe grow and thrive over the many decades since it began.
Competition
Indian National Finals Rodeo (INFR) announcer Ray Champ
As always, the competition in White River was tight and went down to the wire. Whether it was a cowboy or cowgirl, each event featured world-class skills that were described in their own unique ways by Ray Champ. Some of the most popular events featured during this year’s competition included:
- Bull Riding
- Steer Wrestling
- Saddle Bronc
- Team Roping
- Barrel Racing
With competitors fighting hard to win each event, Arizona was definitely the place to be for anyone and everyone who loves the traditions of the Old West. What has made this rodeo so special over the years has been the variety of competitions for all age levels. Whether it was the Junior, Masters, or Women’s competitions, all ages and skill levels were well-represented.
With Ray Champ offering his always entertaining descriptions of the day’s events, the White Mountain Apache Tribal Fair and Rodeo provided great Western entertainment that any cowboy or cowgirl would find exciting. With this year’s festivities now over and done with, there’s little doubt those who love their Indian heritage are already looking forward to next year’s event in WhiteRiver, Arizona. And judging by the crowds from this year, the 91st edition will be bigger and better than ever.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
Special CLN Thanks to Our CLN Sponsors:
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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.
