Legends of the West

The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s (PRCA) Legends of the West returns to Everett Bowman Arena (935 Constellation Road) April 1-2 for its second running. Legends of the West, which features professional cowboys and cowgirls in “all the classic events,” received its name through social media suggestions.

Sheila Goode, executive director of the Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce, one of the event’s producers, said, “A theme developed, and it was decided to name the event ‘Legends of the West’ to honor all that have come before us and paved the way for what rodeo and the western community are today.”

After many years partnering up with stock contractor Honeycutt Rodeo for the annual Senior Pro Rodeo during the town’s popular Gold Rush Days, the Chamber was asked to “try something new,” which resulted in the decision to produce a PRCA event. Consisting of rough-stock events like bareback, saddle bronc, and bull riding, as well as timed events like steer wrestling, team and tie-down roping, and barrel racing, Legends of the West and the rodeo circuit with which it affiliates are “the equivalent of the major leagues in other sports.”

Times and scores recorded, and money earned at the two-day event will go towards each competitor’s yearly aggregate, which factors in come December during the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. With all the fanfare a pro rodeo can expect, including opening ceremonies and special appearances by rodeo royalty, Legends of the West looks to repeat the success of its inaugural year in Wickenburg.

“We are looking forward to another top-notch and action-packed weekend of professional rodeo to Wickenburg,” said Goode.

The event begins at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Apr. 1 and 3 p.m. on Sunday, Apr. 2. Tickets to the event, once available, can be found at wickenburgchamber.com

Be sure to check out the arts and crafts fair between town hall and the library Friday, Saturday and Sunday.