The Hondo Rodeo Fest is back and this year it is even bigger than ever. From November 7–9, Phoenix’s Chase Field will once again host the invite-only rodeo that last year quickly became one of the most talked-about events in the professional rodeo world. Unlike other rodeos, this one is not sanctioned by the PRCA or PBR but it is a gathering of the best of the best rodep athletes and stock from across the country competing for a $1 million prize purse.

Rodeo fans won’t just be treated to high-stakes rodeo action but they’ll get to see a lineup that reads like a who’s who of western sports. Reigning champions Dawson Hay, Martha Angelone, Zeke Thurston, Shane Hanchey, John Crimber, and Lisa Lockhart are a few champions returning to defend their titles. They will be joined by other big names ready to challenge them for their shot at the Hondo title. 

Beyond the arena dirt, fans can expect that full festival experience. Country music stars will take the stage each night, bringing in that Nashville sound under the same roof of the best rodeo action, all making the Hondo more than just a rodeo but a full-blown Western lifestyle celebration. 

The Hondo does not slack on inviting simply the best to the arena and the stage. This year's music headliners are Nickelback, Treaty Oak Revival, Kid Rock, Jon Pardi, Jason Aldean, and Riley Green. Cody Johnson was originally going to be there, but recently cancelled the rest of the shows this year due to illness and a bursted ear drum resulting in emergency surgery. Kid Rock took his place for 2025. 

The Hondo has quickly earned its reputation as a must-see stop on the rodeo and western sports calendar. Whether you’re a lifelong rodeo fan or even new to the sport, this November’s event promises three nights of top-notch entertainment in the heart of Phoenix. 

See the full list of invited competitors for each event at this year’s Hondo Rodeo Fest

Bareback Riding – Last year’s champion Jacob Lees returns to defend his title. He has his work cut out for him with guys like 10x NFR qualifier Tilden Hooper and 2x NFR Average Champ Jess Pope among the talented field of riders.

Jacob Lees
Tilden Hooper
Bradlee Miller
Jess Pope
Sam Petersen
Kade Sonnier
RC Landingham
Garrett Shadbolt

Steer Wrestling – 2024 champion Ty Erickson will attempt to throw steers faster than seven other talented competitors.

Ty Erickson
JD Struxness
Will Lummus
Jesse Brown
Tucker Allen
Rowdy Parrott
Justin Shaffer
Kyle Irwin

Team Roping – Last year’s champs Erich Rodgers and Cory Petska return to defend their titles and win big again.

Erich Rodgers / Cory Petska
Kaleb Driggers / Paul Eaves
Tyler Wade / Wesley Thorp
Derrick Begay / Colter Todd
Tanner Tomlinson / Travis Graves
Clint Summers / Jade Corkill
Andrew Ward / Coleby Payne
Dustin Egusquiza / Levi Lord

Ladies Breakaway – In the fastest event on dirt, the reigning champion Martha Angelone has been on fire and is ready to go after another Hondo Rodeo title this year!

Martha Angelone
Kelsie Domer
Taylor Munsell
Josie Conner
Cheyanne McCartney
Shelby Boisjoli-Meged
Hali Williams
Bradi Good

Tie-Down Roping – Shane Hanchey, last year’s winner, returns to rope against the best right before a trip to Vegas for his 16th NFR qualification.

Shane Hanchey
Riley Webb
Shad Mayfield
John Douch
Marty Yates
Tuf Cooper
Kincade Henry
Dylan Hancock

Saddle Bronc – Last year, Zeke Thurston dominated. He’s back and better than ever for the Hondo 2025.

Zac Dallas
Zeke Thurston
Kade Bruno
Dawson Hay
Sage Newman
Brody Wells
Brody Cress
Lefty Holman

Barrel Racing – Fan favorite and 2024 champ Lisa Lockhart returns to Chase Field on a mission.

Lisa Lockhart
Hailey Kinsel
Emily Beisel
Megan McLeod-Sprague
Mackenzie Mayes
Wenda Johnson
Tayla Moeykens
Hayle Gibson-Stillwell

Bull Riding – In one of the most adrenaline-fueled events of the weekend, last year’s champion John Crimber returns to defend his title, 8 seconds at a time. Meanwhile, bullfighters Tucker Lane and Dakota Knight protect the riders at all costs.

John Crimber
Thiago Salgado
Wacey Schalla
TJ Gray
Kyler Oliver
Tristen Hutchings
Ky Hamilton
Cooper Davis
Clay Guiton
Hudson Bolton
Jordan Spears
Qynn Andersen

*All contestants lists are unofficial*