Why become a PRCA rodeo?

Producing a successful rodeo requires dedication, long hours and hard work by local committee members, and a commitment from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association in Colorado Springs, Colo., to provide the necessary assistance.

Committee members know their communities and understand what is needed to attract local spectators. From establishing lucrative purses and acquiring top stock, which in turn usually draws the best cowboys, to building publicity and working with the media, the PRCA knows the best methods of producing a successful rodeo.

The PRCA staff works year-round to provide services vital to the success of any rodeo, including a central entry system, rodeo administration, professional judging, media relations assistance, sponsor information, and points/membership services. Operating under its current administrative model, which took effect in 1988, the PRCA sanctions approximately 650 rodeos annually in the United States and Canada.

A PRCA membership consisting of contestants, stock contractors, contract personnel and rodeo committees elects representatives to executive councils. PRCA directors representing the various member-groups are chosen by the elected executive council members. Rodeo committees are represented on the board of directors by two members chosen by the five-person rodeo committee executive council.

The PRCA has approximately 9,000 members and sanctions rodeos in 39 states and four Canadian provinces. Total prize money offered by PRCA rodeos surpassed $35 million in 2005, and total attendance was estimated at more than 24 million. Now, more than ever, television is playing a larger role in attracting new viewers, while retaining and entertaining long-time fans.

With support from the PRCA, committee members know they will attract the best athletes and toughest stock, provide the largest purses possible and present the most professional productions, backed by a uniform judging system.