Saddle up for the 2019 Parada del Sol Parade!

Looking for something exciting to do with the family this weekend? Well look no further because the 66th Annual Parada del Sol Parade is right around the corner! This Saturday, February 9th, Scottsdale, Arizona is bringing the wild west to the streets of downtown Scottsdale. Bringing in over 30,000 spectators each year, Scottsdale’s Parada Del Sol Parade, Western Week, and Trails End Festival are sure to entertain as they provide audience members with a way to peer into the days of the old west as well as an opportunity to enjoy local shopping and dining, live musical entertainment, various community floats, stagecoaches, school bands, equestrian teams, and much more!

While the parade will begin at 10am sharp on Saturday, February 9th, the action will have begun stirring well before then. Leading up to parade day is Scottsdale’s, Western Week. Packed full of entertainment, educational opportunities, and cultural presentations, Western Week has become a staple in Scottsdale’s Parada del Sol celebrations. Luckily for you, the excitement isn’t over yet! For a full list of remaining activities, click here!

When parade time comes this Saturday, it is all hands-on deck in Scottsdale! Downtown will transform into a Western Wonderland as visitors from around the state of Arizona come to see what Scottsdale has in store for this year’s celebration. With thousands of spectators expected to attend, there is no doubt that food vendors, restaurants, shopping, and live entertainment will be bountiful. Pre-parade entertainment will begin at 9am and includes performances by the famous Spanish Cabalgando X Arizona Dancing Horses & Espinosas Group and the Scottsdale Fire Department Honor Guard Pipes and Drum Corps.

The 2019 Parada del Sol Parade theme is “Arizona Heroes.” This year’s parade will honor late Arizona Senator, John McCain. In an interview with Wayne Schutsky of Scottsdale Progress, Parada del Sol President Wendy Springborn stated,

“Once we had the theme, we started brainstorming about who to invite. Senator McCain had recently passed, so the committee decided it would be our great honor to recognize him as our grand marshal, and who more appropriate than his wife Cindy to represent him in our parade?” (www.scottsdale.org).

Make sure to stick around after the parade for the Parada del Sol Trail’s End Festival. From 12pm-4pm, block party action will take place with kids play areas, petting zoo, live music, dance performances, western reenactments, food trucks and vendors, as well as shopping! Plan for an entire day of family fun and excitement as you participate in the 2019 Parada del Sol Celebrations!

Winstar World Casino & Resort PBR Global Cup USA 2019

ARLINGTON, Texas – For the last 27 years, bull riding fans and adrenaline junkies have depended on Professional Bull Riders keep on keeping it hot and bring us excellence in contests and innovation. This year’s PBR Global Cup (where riders compete as teams instead of the traditional one-on-one contest for individuals) is again taking the excitement level up a very important notch.

For the first time in the three-year history of the event, members of sovereign indigenous nations within the United States will field Team Wolves, coached by former champion bull rider Wiley Petersen of the Shoshone – Bannock Tribes and featuring hot young talent like 2018 PBR Rookie of the Year Keyshawn Whitehorse of the Navajo Nation.

Lakota Cowboy and star of the break out award winning film, The Rider, Cat Clifford is excited about Team Wolves stepping out to compete against teams from Brazil, Australia, Canada and Mexico as well as the non-native US Team Eagles.

“I think that PBR fielding this team is an important step that starts to recognize the shades of sovereignty, allowing the riders to represent their own nations that exist within nations,” said Clifford. “I believe it will inspire the young Native American up-and-comers who’ve already put in so much work to excel in their events. Every one of these PBR riders are already somebody’s heroes.”

The 2019 PBR Global Cup takes place on February 9 and 10 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. It’s the first time the international event has been held in the United States; the inaugural was in Canada and last year’s was hosted by Australia.

Once again, Cooper Tires contribution not just as a sponsor but as a product that keeps cowboys and bad bucking bulls rolling safely down the road will be front and center. Serving the global community, the Cooper Tires family and products have justifiably earned the trust of buyers who need dependable, durable long lasting tires for every rig.

Legends of the Old West Podcast: Red Cloud’s War Episode 1

Red Cloud’s War: The Road To Sand Creek

Legends of the Old West Podcast are excited to introduce the first episode in their new season, Red Cloud’s War: The Road to Sand Creek.   As the United States expanded westward across the high plains in the 1840s and 1850s, its citizens began the slow destruction of the hunting grounds of the Lakota, Cheyenne and Arapaho. The tribes attacked travelers from Kansas to Montana in response. 

Hear the story of the most feared and respected war Chief of his era on the high plains: RED CLOUD’S WAR

But the tribes refused to take large-scale action against the white travelers, whom they saw as invaders until a cavalry unit in Colorado Territory killed 230 people in the Sand Creek Massacre. After that event, the warriors of the northern plains united behind a single leader for the first time in history, the great Oglala war chief, Red Cloud. In 1865, he led them to war against the United States Army…to find out how this story begins make sure to check out the full episode on Legends of the Old West Podcast, or listen & subscribe on your favorite podcast app.

Visit Black Barrel Media ( https://www.blackbarrelmedia.com/podcasts ) to discover their new series “Infamous America.” Their new podcast series explores the wildest and darkest chapters of American history. Season One features the tale of the Salem witch trials.

Now playing: Season Four — RED CLOUD’S WAR

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Art of the Cowgirl Raises Money for Fellowship Program

Corona Ranch – Phoenix, Arizona: Friday, February 8 – Sunday, February 10

The inaugural Art of the Cowgirl event is now less than a week away. An event such as this has been decades in the making – certainly one that will fulfill a need to not only preserve heritage but to also develop talent in emerging artists. And Tammy Pate, Art of the Cowgirl visionary,  is just the person to bring it to fruition.

The mission of Art of the Cowgirl is as follows:

“Our Purpose is Twofold: As Art of the Cowgirl not only Celebrates Accomplished Artisans and Horsewomen, but also Provides Funding for Emerging Artists in the Development of their Crafts and Businesses.”

“Through our Fellowship Program, which is a not-for-profit foundation, we will work to pair those who want to learn, with those who are ‘Masters’ at their crafts. Funding generated by the event will provide support for the Master, as well as the Fellowship Recipient.” – Tammy Pate

Tammy has been Stockmanship Expert Curt Pate’s partner and wife for over 31 years. She herself, is an accomplished horsemanship clinician, yoga instructor, and talented boot maker. “I have cherished the artistic and creative process of building a functioning, yet beautiful pair of boots – a piece of art.” – Tammy Pate, in an Art of the Cowgirl video promo.

Art of the Cowgirl – February 8-10, 2019

Art of the Cowgirl – February 8-10, 2019 – Phoenix ArizonaCreating a fellowship for makers and horsemanship and celebrating the Cowgirl SpiritCinematography & Videography by McFarland Productions

Posted by Art of the Cowgirl on Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Ms. Pate’s strong ranching, horsemanship, and stockmanship background, combined with her travels alongside her partner and husband Curt, have ushered Tammy down a path that has introduced her to a network of Master Artisans, mentors, and genuine friendships with other women within the Western Industry.

Art of the Cowgirl is all about giving back to the women, their partners, and their families that have meant so much to Tammy. Her grandmother, mother, sisters, and now daughter, have all played integral roles in living a “passion-filled, rich life” – and Art of the Cowgirl will be a gathering to share, as well as to celebrate, talents and functional creativity.

The Art of the Cowgirl Fellowship has been well-received; and for its inaugural year, promises to be a smashing success. It has been consistently gaining momentum, garnering sponsors and media attention throughout 2018. Anticipation has been high – and Tammy has received numerous applications for Fellowship awards – even from as far away as Australia.

There will be seven Fellowships awarded to deserving Recipients, via an application process.

The Masters and their areas of expertise are as follows:

Nancy Martiny – Saddle Maker

Teresa Black – Rawhide Braider/Horsehair Hitcher

Amy Raymond – Silversmith/Engraver

Kelly Martin – Boot Maker

Jan Mapes – Fine Artist

Constance Jaeggi – Photographer

Lee Smith – Horsewoman/Clinician

The very first Art of the Cowgirl Fellowship Recipient is Toni Tolle, a 31-year-old ranching wife and mother from Encampment, Wyoming.

“It’s a truly humbling experience to know out of all the applications, I was picked. I’m so grateful I get the opportunity to represent such a great fellowship and organization to promote the Western Arts. I look forward to learning from an amazing artist like Nancy Martiny.”, said Toni.

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***Fellowship Announcement*** We are thrilled to announce that Toni Kay Tolle of Encampment, WY has been selected as recipient for 2019 Saddle Making Fellowship with Nancy Martiny. . Our Mission: The Fellowship Program is our original dream and basis for the Art of the Cowgirl Event. The fellowship provides an opportunity for western artists to work with masters– a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn or refine their passion with some of the most talented makers in the business. Whether it be a fine art, functional trade or horsemanship, these fellowships will enrich, empower and educate while honoring our western heritage. The fellowship seeks to remove obstacles such as funding and access for up and coming artists, without restriction of age or location. . #artofthecowgirl2019 #artofthecowgirl #cowgirlmaker #welovemakers #westernhorsemanship #westernfashion #westernart #lovelivecowgirls #silversmith #saddlemaker #cowboyboots @montana.silversmiths @purinafeedgreatness @staytuffusa @excel_supplements @cowgirlmuseum @cowgirlmagazine @westernhorseman @wrangler @ridetvnetwork @wranglernetwork @nrsworld @thebrandpaige1912 @greeleyhatworks

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Toni has been awarded a Fellowship to spend time with her new Mentor, and Master Saddle Maker, Nancy Martini. Toni’s trip, stay, supplies, instruction, and business education are all-inclusive; and she will be leaving Nancy’s workshop with a finished saddle. But more importantly, Toni will have a viable prospect of adding to her family’s income and carry on her father’s legacy; as he was a saddle maker by trade as well.

Art of the Cowgirl Fellowship Funds will be raised via individual donations, as well as during auxiliary events, taking place during the three days at the Art of the Cowgirl gathering.  Some of the main fundraising events include an Art Auction (Friday, February 8); Fellowship Auction (Saturday, February 9); All Women’s Ranch Rodeo (Friday and Saturday, February 8 & 9); and an Elite Horse Sale (Sunday, February 10).

Individual donations are accepted, via a partnership with Equine Empowerment, a Colorado-based 501(c)(3). CLICK HERE to learn how to play a role in raising funds for the Art of the Cowgirl Fellowship.

Join us at the historic Corona Ranch, just outside Phoenix, Arizona – February 8-10, and rub elbows with Masters of the Western Industry; shop and enjoy perusing many unique booths at the Art of the Cowgirl Tradeshow; attend a horsemanship clinic; soak in a concert; and enjoy the beauty, grace, grit, authenticity, and kindness of the people of Art of the Cowgirl!

Cowboy Lifestyle Network is proud to be a media partner in this upcoming event. We excited to announce that you can now buy discounted tickets using the code Lifestyle20 on their website.  Make sure to also follow Art of the Cowgirl on Facebook and Instagram for all of the latest updates!

55th Annual Lost Dutchman Days Rodeo 2019

The 2019 Lost Dutchman Days continues to be “the fun place to be for all ages.” This 55th annual event has 3 days of professional rodeo action brought to you by the Grand Canyon Professional Rodeo Association, and a carnival that features 30+ rides.  What would any event be without plenty of food and vendor booths to browse and they have over 100 setting up to keep the family busy.

Photo Courtesy of Krysta Paffrath

The Lost Dutchman Days Rodeo Committee partners up with various youth-serving organizations and sponsors to put on this event that entertains the entire family. Profits from this event are donated back to these youth organizations and other youth-serving programs of the Apache Junction Community, ensuring the opportunity to reach the ultimate goal of “Putting Smiles on Kid’s Faces”. 

Photo Courtesy of Krysta Paffrath

Superstition Mountain Promotional Corporation and the Apache Junction Mounted Rangers are the moving forces behind this highly successful and popular hometown rodeo. With both organizations being completely made up of volunteers, this event has been growing and evolving since 1965 and 55 years later, they are proud to present their best year yet.

Photo Courtesy of Krysta Paffrath

Kicking off the weekend festivities is the Beer & Brat Party on February 21st, 2019 at the Apache Junction Elks Lodge. There will be free entertainment, a classic car show and plenty of beer and brats for the whole family!

Photo Courtesy of Krysta Paffrath

Performance Dates and Times

Main Rodeo Performances

  • Friday, February 22nd, 2019 – Gates open at 9 am, Performance at 1:30 pm
  • Saturday, February 23rd, 2019 – Gates open at 9 am, Performance at 1:30 pm
  • Saturday, February 24th, 2019 – Gates open at 9 am, Performance at 1:30 pm
Photo Courtesy of Krysta Paffrath

Mutton Busting

  • Sunday, February 24th, 2019 – Sign-ups at 4 pm on Saturday, Performance immediately follows the performance on Sunday afternoon

Ticket Prices

Event Center admission is only $2.00 and parking is free.

Child (ages 4-10, 3 and under Free) – $10.00

Adult – $15.00

There is so much more going on for this fun event, make sure to follow Cowboy Lifestyle Network on social media to keep up with our live event stream. You can also find Lost Dutchman Days on Facebook and Instagram! Give them a follow and stay tuned for more great event features.

Red Bluff Roundup Cattle Days 2019

25th Anniversary of Cattle Days!

Want a fun day with the family that won’t break the bank? Or maybe you just want to experience good fun rodeo? Well, if you happen to be in Red Bluff California on the days of February 15th through the 16th then you may want to stop in and take a seat at the Red Bluff Jr Round-Up 25th anniversary of Cattle Days! It’s a short 2-day event filled with children of all ages competing, as well as a great venue to make coming with the whole family easy!

Red Bluff Cattle Days provides a unique experience for the younger ages to be able to compete in at least one event,  this even includes any kids with no previous rodeo experience. For example events like the Stick Horse Barrel Race, Goat Undecoarting and a Dummy Roping are all events that children 5 and under can compete in, and will not need to have any previous rodeo experience!  Just make sure to enter up no later than Friday, February 8th!

For anyone who may be wondering what other events will be taking place at Cattle Days here is a list along with the age groups who are eligible to compete. Followed below by a schedule of all events!

Events:

  • Pole Bending (6 & over)
  • Goat Undecoarting (5 & under)
  • Stick Horse Barrel Race (5 & under)
  • Dummy Roping (5 & under, 6-10)
  • Mutton Bustin (5 & under)
  • Goat Dogging (5 & under, 6-10)
  • Calf Riding (6-10)
  • Barrel Racing (6 & over)
  • Single Stake (6 & over)
  • 3 Man Ribbon Roping (Jackpot only! 11 & over)
  • Steer Stopping (6 & over)
  • Breakaway Roping (6 & over)
  • Steer Daubing (6 & over)
  • Sack Roping (6 & over)
  • Goat Tying (6 & over)
  • Chute Dogging (11 & over)
  • Steer Riding (11-13)
  • Hide Race (11 & over)
  • Calf Roping (11 & over)
  • Team Roping (6 & over)

Schedule

The Friday Night Rodeo will be starting at 6 PM and there will only be 3 events held that night.

All events are as follows…

-Pole Bending

-Barrel Racing

-Single Stake

Saturday will have an early start of 9 AM. All events other than Poles, Barrels and Single Stake will be competing.

Make sure to come out to the 25th anniversary and have a fun-filled day with the family, while cheering on the younger ages as they compete in each timed event!

 

Tucson Rodeo – La Fiesta de Los Vaqueros 2019

The Wild West, known for its gunslingin’ cowboys, bank robbing bandits, and crime-stopping Sheriffs has continued to influence western culture throughout history. From tumbleweeds to the tallest Saguaro cactus, the idea of the Wild West has captivated audiences through cinema, literature, art, and beyond. While Gunfights at the O.K. Corral have become a thing of the past, one integral piece of western history has remained, the sport of rodeo.

Photo courtesy of the Tucson Rodeo Facebook Page

Tucson, Arizona, famous for its wild western flair has seen its fair share of award-winning western action. While it may be a hotspot for filming some of the world’s most popular westerns, including Tombstone (1993) and The Frisco Kid (1979,) Tucson is much more than a movie set! Each year Tucson pulls out all the stops for one of the most exciting events in rodeo, La Fiesta de Los Vaqueros, running February 16th-24th.  This 9-day long party is for the cowboys and cowgirls as they compete in PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) rodeo events such as bull riding, bareback and saddle bronc, steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping, and barrel racing.

With a past as rich as a prospector hitting gold, La Fiesta de Los Vaqueros combines western tradition, with new age excitement to create one of the most exciting events during the PRCA season. The year was 1925 when an idea sparked in Leighton Kramer to draw more visitors to Tucson during the mid-winter months. With a chance to promote Tucson and celebrate its western history, La Fiesta de Los Vaqueros was born. Kramer’s official welcome in the first 1925 program, read:

 “Not so many years ago the first pony express came to a sudden halt on our Main Street, carrying civilization southwestward. Not so many years ago the first railroad whistled in. Gone is the past. The hitching post has been removed. A new civilization has put steel and concrete and built a mighty city where only yesterday horses grazed within the memory of living man. The Pioneer Spirit lives. Heroic memories never die. The Old Frontier will be revived-at Tucson, February 21, 22 and 23, 1925—as a community revival. We are proud to offer this attraction to the people of American as a glorious reminder of yesterday” (tucsonrodeo.com).

As popularity grew throughout the years, the rodeo sought a larger facility to accommodate the action. Today the Tucson Rodeo Grounds seats 11,000 rodeo spectators. As a whole, rodeo week is viewed by over 200,000 spectators.

With 6 rodeo performances, parade, food and shopping vendors, rodeo dances, Mutton Bustin’ for the kiddos, the Justin Junior Rodeo, and the Chicks n Chaps Women’s Rodeo Clinic which raises money for breast cancer awareness, La Fiesta de Los Vaqueros is sure to be a 2019 hit in Tucson, Arizona! For a full schedule of events, please visit: (tucsonrodeo.com).

Tucson aims to keep their western heritage alive through community outreach and education. One notable program being REACh (Rodeo Education And Children,) in which K-6th-grade students are introduced to and taught all about western heritage, the sport of rodeo, today’s working cowboy, and how to “Cowboy Up” when faced with difficult decisions. Penny Conway, an elementary school teacher from Payson, Arizona created the program and ever since REACh has made its way across 31 states (tucsonrodeo.com).

Cowboy Lifestyle Network hopes you will join us in celebrating Tucson’s rich history and the rodeo thrills, spills, and excitement at La Fiesta de Los Vaqueros this February!

Tickets can be purchased here!

Read it on Apple News

26th PBR: Unleash the Beast Express Ranches Invitational 2019

Oklahoma City, are you ready for the toughest sport on dirt to return to your city? The PBR Express Ranches Invitational is teaming up the American Freestyle Bullfighters to put on the best show yet. This will be yet another opportunity for fans to witness man vs beast in some of the toughest challenges out there. Not only will you get the chance to witness your favorite bull riders go head to head against the top bulls in the nation, but you will also get to see some of the best bullfighters in the nation do what they do best.

All of this action is going down at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, OK on both Friday, February 1 at 7:45 p.m and Saturday, February 2, 2019, 6:45 PM. On top of these performances, there are many other events going on around town that you need to check out!

January 31, 2019

Rider Meet N Greet

You can stop by Twin Peaks on Thursday, January 31st, for a chance to meet PBR Rider Brennon Eldred from 6-7 PM. Twin Peaks is located at 6500 SW 3rd St Oklahoma City, OK 73128 at 6:00 PM CST

February 1, 2019

Express Ranches Invitational: Round 1

Location: OKLAHOMA CITY, OK | CHESAPEAKE ENERGY ARENA at 7:45 PM. Find your tickets here. 

American Freestyle Bullfighting

Location: OKLAHOMA CITY, OK | CHESAPEAKE ENERGY ARENA

This event is included with your PBR ticket and will take place during the performance. Be prepared for the next best sport on dirt!

After Party

Looking for a great honky tonk bar? Head over to Western Nights after the PBR event, free entry with your PBR ticket! This event is located at 1164 N. Macarthur in Oklahoma and is right after the PBR Performance.
GET MORE INFO HERE!

February 2, 2019

Express Ranches Invitational: Championship Round

Location: OKLAHOMA CITY, OK | CHESAPEAKE ENERGY ARENA
Time: 6:45 PM CST

After Party

Western Nights bring you Steve Brack Live (full band) at the Official PBR after party on Saturday night at 9:30 PM. Free Entry with PBR Ticket!

Location: OKLAHOMA CITY | 1164 N.MACARTHUR

Steve Brack Live (full band) at the Official 2019 PBR Afterparty hosted by Western Nights!!! Free Entry with PBR Ticket all night, Free Entry for all till 10:00 & only $5.00 @ the door after 10:00 PM. without! This is gonna be Buckin Crazy so make your plans now! Also, don't forget Ray Scott preforms the PBR PreParty Thursday Jan 31st!!! More info athttps://www.facebook.com/westernightsokc/ https://www.facebook.com/Stevebrackmusic/www.stevebrackmusic.comPlease Share

Posted by Western Nights on Monday, January 21, 2019

About American Freestyle Bullfighting

Legendary bullfighter Shorty Gorham, best known for his cowboy protection at PBR events, is reviving the forgotten sport of American style bullfighting and creating a new generation of stars with the formation ofShorty Gorham’s American Freestyle Bullfighting. Shorty has teamed up with PBR to be an additional event at select your stops. Oklahoma City is the second stop in their circuit.

Last year, PBR rider, Ryan Dirteater was the champion of the weekend. It will be interesting to see if he will be able to snag that title for a second year in a row or if the Brazilian Cowboy, JOÃO RICARDO VIEIRA will take his third win in a row.

San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo SASSR 2019

Come one, come all! The San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo is back for its 87th year. First held in 1934, the San Angelo Rodeo is one of the most beloved rodeos in Texas. A favorite of Lone Star State cowboys and cowgirls for decades, this event has been a family tradition for generations. Known for attracting great crowds as well as many of the world’s best rodeo competitors, the PRCA San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo has gained a reputation for great action and excitement from start to finish. Always attracting plenty of media coverage from various sources as the Cowboy Lifestyle Network, Wrangler, Justin Boots, Pendleton Whisky, RAM and Coors, it’s clear the PRCA San Angelo Rodeo is indeed something special.

Rodeo Events

Because the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo has such a rich tradition, fans can always count on seeing many of the best rodeo events anywhere. For this year’s rodeo, fans can expect to see such exciting events as:

  • Bull riding
  • Saddle bronc riding
  • Bareback riding 
  • Team roping
  • Calf roping
  • Steer wrestling
  • Barrel racing

With both cowboys and cowgirls competing in many of these events, fans of this great Texas rodeo can expect to be cheering for their favorite competitors from beginning to end.

Special Events and Charities

Since rodeo fans are some of the most passionate in the world about their sport, their community, and their country, the San Angelo Stock Show and PRCA San Angelo Rodeo always contain a number of special events to entertain fans, as well as affiliations with numerous charities that help cure illnesses, support military veterans, and help local community members in need of food and other assistance. Along with these important events, fans of this great event can also look forward to such activities as the plethora of stock shows, RQHA Horse Show, concerts, carnivals, after-party dances, Rodeo Queen contests, and plenty of other activities that will delight Lone Star State rodeo fans of all ages.

Purchase Your Tickets Now

Because the PRCA San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo is such a popular Texas attraction year in and year out, it’s always a good idea to get your tickets as soon as possible. If you’d like, you can stop by the Foster Communications Coliseum at the San Angelo Fairgrounds to purchase tickets, or you can instead purchase tickets online at www.sanangelorodeo.com. Whatever method you choose, you are sure to be attending a truly unique Texas-style event, whereas we all know everything is always bigger and better than what you’ll find anywhere else.

Investing in a Thrill of a Lifetime

Technology. Artificial Intelligence. Computers. Social Media.

Life is changing for all of us. We’re all on a ride that is taking us further and further into the sanitary world of cyberspace. I truly believe that with these changes, brings to us, urges to go back. Back to basic fundamentals of a life well-lived.Family Values. Tradition. Grit. Determination. Hard Work. Excitement. Thrills. Hard Knocks.

I believe that sometimes, we all feel like we’re at the mercy of whatever happens, and we simply must deal with the cards dealt to us. Believe me – we’re all in the same boat. And when we hear stories of people who are winning the Game we call Life – When we hear of people who are making connections with core values and what makes life exciting – it’s rejuvenating. Healing. Inspiring. And really, that’s one way we can all benefit from modern innovations. That’s what the Cowboy Lifestyle Network is all about – spreading positive news about real people in our industry.

Cord McCoy (McCoy Ranch), of Tupelo, Oklahoma; and John Cadzow (WSM Auctioneers), of Phoenix, AZ are two such people. And it was common core values, as well as the American sport of Bull Riding, that brought them together.

Cord McCoy, family man/former professional bull rider turned futurity bull contractor – and John Cadzow, family man/second generation Western Sales Management Auctioneer – met through their common devotion to the tradition and cultural phenomena of Professional Bull Riding.

There are two players in the game of Bull Riding: The Rider, and the Bull. Cord and John share a love and respect for the muscle-bound players/athletes who were born to buck. The kings of the Dirt Arena: The Bulls.

Some bucking bulls are trained, some discovered, and others develop skills through a network of amateur bull riding jackpots and/or events held all across America at any given day or night. Developing bucking bull prospects into athletes has become somewhat of a science these days. The advent of the ABBI (American Bucking Bull, Inc) has created an avenue for talented bulls and trainers to take their God-given talents to a new and exciting level.

When Cord McCoy made his journey through high school, to college, and then professional rodeo, he met many challenges that included both injury and triumph. Late in his riding career, Cord decided to dabble in raising a few bucking bulls. He’d take a few bulls to an event and enter them in a concurring futurity, while he tried his hand on the riding side.

He told me during a phone interview,

“I was at a Classic Event in Decatur, Texas a few years back. I had taken a stomping in the bull riding, and was dragging my rigging bag back to my truck feeling sore all over and broke. I hadn’t won a dime. Someone yelled from behind me – ‘hey, aren’t you going to get your money before you leave?’  Turns out, my futurity bull had won $4,500, and I thought to myself, ‘ why in the world am I busting my butt riding when I could be using my talents and experience to raise good bucking bulls’?”

So that’s exactly what Cord did – he started to utilize his eye to find the perfect prospects for either further training and development; or to breed and raise his own. In fact, he said that he’s won more on his futurity bulls in one year than he ever did as a bull rider in one year.

When John Cadzow made his journey from working with his father in the western auctioneering business to becoming involved with PBR bull riding events, his wife Shelly and Cord’s wife Sara, became fast friends. John could see commonalities between their families. A shared love of tradition, hard work, and determination; as well as respect for those Kings of the Arena – the Bucking Bulls.

Cord had a few bulls that were available for a 50/50 partnership. John is certainly savvy on the ins and outs of bucking bull development – such as the fact that not all bulls make it to the top – and with Cord’s advice, he made a strategic investment in a few of Cord’s bulls who were showing promise.

What really attracted John to Cord, was Cord’s down-home, traditional way of doing business on a handshake. In addition, Cord has some bulls that are competing on a professional level. Cord is not too proud to invest outside of his breeding program. But with the same token, he has enjoyed success raising his own talent.

Now, the two men are excited to embark on their journey with their bulls into the 2019 ABBI season. CLN urges our followers to keep an eye on #613 Uno. He’s one of the 50/50 partnership bulls between Cord and John.

Uno will be competing in the 2019 “Classic” Division; with the end goal for Uno to compete in the ABBI Classic Finals, taking place during the first round of the PBR World Finals in Vegas November 6-10, 2019. Uno is particularly interesting, because the bull has made the ABBI climb from the year-old Pre-Futurities, to the two-year-old Futurities, then on to three-year-old Derbies, and now as a four-year-old, ABBI Classic Competitions. He’s proven himself through the test of time and stamina.

Follow Cord’s bulls and the 2019 season, via the McCoy Ranch Facebook page. Their annual online auction, in which bulls will be available for 50/50 partnerships, will be held November 12-14 (Tuesday-Thursday). Updates on the auction will be posted on Facebook. With over $100,000 in prize money up for grabs at the year-end finals in Vegas, the joint venture that Cord and John are in on is an investment in a thrill of a lifetime!