West of the Pecos Rodeo: ProRodeo's Oldest and Most Historic Stop

Known as the "World's First Rodeo," the annual event returns to Buck Jackson Arena in Pecos June 24-27, continuing a tradition that dates back to July 4, 1883, when local cowboys gathered to settle bragging rights and determine who was the best hand in the West. More than 140 years later, the rodeo remains one of the most recognizable events in the sport. 

According to rodeo historians, the original competition began when renowned ropers Trav Windham and Morg Livingston agreed to test their skills against one another. The contest quickly attracted other cowboys from area ranches, creating what many recognize as the first organized rodeo competition in history. 

Today, the West of the Pecos Rodeo has grown into one of the PRCA's top 40 prize-money rodeos and remains a cornerstone of Texas rodeo tradition. The event was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2008 and later earned induction into the Texas Cowboy Rodeo Hall of Fame. It has also been recognized by PRCA contestants as one of the nation's premier large outdoor rodeos. 

This year's celebration extends beyond the arena. Festivities include the annual rodeo parade through downtown Pecos, the Old Timers Reunion at the West of the Pecos Museum, the Reeves County Sheriff's Posse BBQ, and four nights of PRCA competition. Family Night returns on Wednesday and Thursday; Tough Enough to Wear Pink Night highlights Thursday's performance; and Patriot Night takes center stage on Friday, as fans are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue in support of veterans and first responders. 

Several days of Pro Rodeo start tonight in Pecos, Texas, and fans are looking forward to cheering on their favorite rodeo athletes. West of the Pecos Rodeo is the world's oldest rodeo and honors both PRCA card and PRCA permit holders. (Contestants compete under permit status until they win a minimum of $1,000 dollars at PRCA rodeos, which then earns them a PRCA card.) 

The stock contractor for West of the Pecos Rodeo is Pete Carr Pro Rodeo, who has a long standing reputation for having the best stock in the business. 

Local favorites including the Hide Race, Wild Cow Milking and the Boot Scramble for youth competitors will once again accompany the professional rodeo action, giving fans a glimpse of both the sport's future and its roots. 

For generations, the West of the Pecos Rodeo has been more than a sporting event. It serves as a living tribute to the cowboys, ranchers, and families who built the region while preserving the traditions that helped shape the modern sport of rodeo. As another chapter begins this week in Pecos, competitors will once again ride into the same arena where rodeo history continues to be written.