STATE OF ARIZONA - OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR Congratulations on the 134th year of the “The World’s Oldest Rodeo®” in Prescott, Arizona.
and fans – welcome to beautiful Prescott and the State of Arizona. I wish you all the best.
On July 4, 1888, a group of Prescott merchants and businessmen organized what they called a “cowboy tournament” offering cash prizes and showcasing the spirit, skill and athleticism of local cowboys and ranchers.
2020 was a challenging year, but the Prescott Rodeo endured. I look forward to Arizonans and rodeo fans enjoying another 134 years of the “The World’s Oldest Rodeo®” – and many more.
Every year since, competitors and fans have come from around the world to enjoy the excitement of the Prescott Rodeo. And no event showcases the boundless spirit of Arizona and the desert southwest better.
Sincerely,
To this year’s rodeo organizers and sponsors – thank you for your hard work and support. To the competitors
Douglas A. Ducey Governor State of Arizona
ARIZONA OFFICE OF TOURISM 134 years ago, a group of Prescott merchants and professional businessmen organized the first formalized “cowboy tournament,” where local cowboys and ranchers exhibited their ranch-bred skills and athletic ability for cash prizes. It was on July 4, 1888, that Prescott, Arizona became the birthplace of the modern rodeo, an essential piece of Arizona’s history and spirit. This year, we celebrate the 134rd year of “The World’s Oldest Rodeo®,” a crowning achievement for all those who have continued to keep the spirit of the desert southwest alive and part of the Prescott Frontier Days®.
carry with us through challenges and triumphs for more than 13 decades. We appreciate the support of the community, organizers and sponsors of this year’s rodeo, and to the competitors – we wish you all the best of luck! To locals and visitors alike – welcome to “The World’s Oldest Rodeo®!” We hope you enjoy your time here in beautiful Arizona and explore all we have to offer. Sincerely,
Prescott Frontier Days are a celebration of something inherently Arizonan, a tradition we have continued to ®
22 WORLD’S OLDEST RODEO® • 1888-2021
Debbie Johnson Director, Arizona Office of Tourism
