Evolved from the working lifestyle of pioneer homesteaders and western ranchers and tempered by decades of competition, modern-day rodeo carries on the rugged tradition of the Wild West.

To make it on the early frontier, cowboys had to develop their roping and riding skills to the highest degree. As their skills increased, so did their competitive spirit. By the turn of the century, Wild West shows demonstrated the cowboy’s blend of athlete and frontiersman.

Today’s rodeo reminds us of those pioneering roots through its contests between human and animal.

For 100 years, the Deschutes County Rodeo has attracted world-class ropers and riders from across the country to participate and compete alongside Central Oregon’s own rodeo talent. Several local riders who started out here have gone on to make it into the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, including Bobby Mote, Steven Peebles, Brian Bain, Austin Foss, and Wyatt Bloom.

“I’m hoping that a few of our Central Oregon boys will come back to ride for the 100th anniversary,” said Gladys Sappington, rodeo director.

The cowboys and cowgirls who make the rodeo a show to remember aren’t only event performers, they’re also our neighbors, many of whom are out working their ranches every day. The saddles, ropes, and spurs they use aren’t just part of a show. They’re part of the livelihoods that make Central Oregon run. They make the rodeo not just the fun event we experience, but also a part of our regional history.

“The contestants we draw are some of the best in the Northwest,” said Sappington. “The cowboys and cowgirls bring so much talent, and we also have the best stock, which is provided by stock contractor B Bar D Rodeo Company from Powell Butte.”

Highlighting this year’s rodeo performances are JJ Harrison and Joey “Hashbrown” Hackett, highly popular and entertaining barrelmen.

The rodeo series kicks off at the Deschutes County Fair on Wednesday, July 31, and the action returns each night through Saturday, August 3. Rodeo Queen McKenzie Miller and Grand Marshal Rachel McIntosh will be on hand to open each rodeo performance, taking time to meet the public and sign autographs.

As a Northwest Pro Rodeo Association–sanctioned event, the rodeo’s highlights include all the traditional competitions, such as steer wrestling, barrel racing, team roping, bull riding, and other roping and riding events. The high-flying action has won the local show the NPRA’s Rodeo of the Year honor numerous times since its beginnings.

The family-friendly fun starts at 6:30 pm each night, with seating on a first-come, first-served basis, and is free with fair admission. The rodeo offers fairgoers the perfect opportunity to take a break from the flurry of fair festivities, get off their feet, and relax while enjoying the nail-biting action.

The Deschutes County Rodeo is like a big family, Sappington said.

“From all our amazing help to the contestants to the spectators themselves, this is all about having fun at a good old-fashioned rodeo and fair,” she said.

Still, for those who are looking for even more fun and festivities at the end of the evening, everyone 21 and over is welcome to Chute 9, an after-rodeo party that keeps the party going on Friday and Saturday nights. Festivities include live music and dancing both nights immediately following the rodeo until 11 pm. Chute 9 offers rodeo enthusiasts a chance to meet some of the cowboys and cowgirls, ask the questions they’ve always wanted to ask, and mingle among the rodeo stars.

All the performers put their whole heart into the rodeo. They’re talented athletes, yes, but many of them are also ranchers and farmers—real everyday cowboys and cowgirls who live and work right here among us.