WORLD’S OLDEST RODEO ANNOUNCES THE 2024 EVENTS SCHEDULE
By Donna Werking
Prescott Frontier Days®, Inc is thrilled to announce the much anticipated 137th annual World’s Oldest Rodeo, taking place from Monday, July 1 through Sunday, July 7 in Prescott. This iconic event, held during the bustling Fourth of July week, is a cornerstone of Prescott’s summer calendar, driving economic prosperity throughout the county. Featuring a week-long extravaganza of world-class rodeo action and family-friendly entertainment, the World’s Oldest Rodeo stands as Prescott’s premier event of the year.
Drawing rodeo enthusiasts from across the globe, Prescott Frontier Days invites attendees to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of western culture and history dating back to its inaugural celebration on July 4, 1888. This year, the rodeo pays tribute to the deep-rooted western culture, embodying the theme of “Prescott Traditions.” As part of the festivities, the rodeo is launching the Memory Catcher campaign, inviting fans nationwide to share their cherished memories and stories of Prescott rodeo traditions. These stories will be featured on the rodeo’s website and social media platforms, celebrating the enduring legacy of Prescott’s premier event.
Jim Dewey Brown, General Manager of Prescott Frontier Days, Inc., expressed his gratitude for the generations of rodeo families: “It is an honor to highlight their stories and share the profound impact our rodeo has had on their lives over the years.” To submit your rodeo memories, please visit https://worldsoldestrodeo.com/memory-catcher.
The downtown event of the week is the annual rodeo parade, “Prescott Traditions,” set to take place Saturday, July 6 at 9 a.m. and sponsored by Barrett Propane. The parade will kick off with the grand marshal honoree, Ibbie Champie, the daughter of Lawton Champie, a thirteen-time rodeo champion across various events. Lawton won the All-Around in 1931, 1934 and 1944; calf roping in 1939; steer wrestling in 1931 and 1934; saddle bronc riding in 1924, 1926 and 1931. However, Slim Riley got the credit for winning the bronc riding in 1924 because he got hurt the first day and Lawton was bucked off the first day, so, Lawton filled in for Riley the last three days and won the event. In those days it was all right for someone to ride for another person. Demonstrating true cowboy spirit, they shared the reward money.
With record-breaking rodeo attendances over the past two years and unprecedented sponsor participation, 2024 promises to be another triumphant showcase of world-class rodeo competition and family-oriented activities. This year’s highlights include Beau Schueth, a national champion bullfighter who grew up in O’Neill, Nebraska; Quirt Hunt, champion bullfighter, who is joining the Prescott rodeo for his 21st consecutive year; Matt Tarr, known for his quick wit and passion for making people smile and laugh as a rodeo clown; Tomas Garcilazo, featuring his mastery and artistry with fan favorite La Charreria, Broken Spoke Clydesdales; and Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame Announcer, Randy Corley, joined by Co-Announcer, James Horcasitas to highlight the eight performances.
The week’s festivities around the rodeo performances will culminate at the annual rodeo dance at the Depot Marketplace/BMO Harris Bank parking lot, offering three nights of music and dance. Thursday night is family night so bring your entire family to kick up your heels! Friday and Saturday nights are slated for ages 21 and older. Purchase tickets for the rodeo dance at the door for $5 per person. Join us as we celebrate the enduring spirit of western traditions at the World’s Oldest Rodeo!
Prescott Frontier Days, Inc tickets are on sale now only at www.worldsoldestrodeo.com where you can purchase via our only certified ticket vendor, Rodeo Tickets. The Prescott rodeo office is located at 840 Rodeo Dr. in Prescott. For other inquiries, please contact the Prescott Rodeo Office at 928.445.3103 from 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Learn more at www.worldsoldestrodeo.com.