GARY HARDT MEMORIAL RODEO
During its earliest years, Payson's Spring Rodeo was part of the National Old-Timers Rodeo Association, now known as the Senior Pro Rodeo Tour. In 1987 it became the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo to honor the memory of the Payson native who died in 1987. Hardt was a well-known roper. He was recognized throughout the Southwest for his bull riding and roping talents. His rodeo career began in 1962 at the World's Oldest Continuous Rodeo in Payson.
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As a member of the Rodeo Cowboys Association, Hardt rode bulls for about 20 years. During the last 10 years of his work in rodeo, he became a well-established roper as well.​ This memorial event benefits local youth with educational and athletic achievements.
RODEO SCHEDULE
THURSDAY - May 16, 2024 - WOMEN'S CACTUS SERIES BARREL RACING
Gates open @ 5 PM Performance @ 6 PM Admission (1) can of food
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For more information or to enter this event, please contact Nancy Jane at 520-975-6325 or email at saltriverrodeocompany@gmail.com as this is not a Payson Pro Rodeo event. Please do not contact Nancy Jane for PRCA events for Friday and Saturday. Friday and Saturday PRCA Rodeo is operated by the Payson Pro Rodeo.
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Mutton Bustin' will open the Monday following St. Patrick's Day. For Mutton Bustin' please contact Chapman Auto at 928-474-5261. Hours are Monday through Friday 8 AM - 6 PM and Saturday 8 AM - 5 PM.
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Questions about the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo, contact us here.
FRIDAY NIGHT - May 17, 2024 - PERFORMANCE
Tough Enough To Wear Pink - Wear your pink shirts to support breast cancer awareness Gates open @ 5 PM Performance @ 7 PM
Proceeds to benefit local breast cancer awareness programs
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Parking is $10.00 cash per vehicle payable upon entry to the Payson Event Center. Parking is limited and subject to availability. Overflow parking is available across the highway at the Casino. Drop off for handicap is available. Please mention this to the parking attendants and they will direct you. As with any venue, handicap parking is limited.
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Tickets are subject to availability and may not be available for purchase at the gates. It is always advisable to purchase online.
Various food and merchandise vendors are available at the rodeo grounds. Adult beverages are available for purchase from the Payson Pro Rodeo Committee. Must be 21 and older and comply with the Arizona Liquor Laws. No beverages including water bottles are allowed in or out of the gates. (ARS Title 4 Liquor Law)
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SATURDAY NIGHT - May 18, 2024 - PERFORMANCE
Special Patriot Performance
Gates open @ 5 PM Performance @ 7PM Active Military receive free admission
You will see a full PRCA Rodeo with the following events:
Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bullriding, Steer Wrestling, Tie Down Roping, Team Roping, Barrell Racing, Women's Breakaway, Mutton Bustin' and Jr. Steer Riding. We do not know the times for each of the events as it depends on the amount of contestants entered.
Tickets are subject to availability and may not be available for sale at the gate. It is always advisable to purchase online. General admissions seat are not guaranteed.
Parking is $10.00 cash per vehicle payable upon entry to the Payson Event Center. Parking is limited and subject to availability. Overflow parking is available across the highway at the Casino. Drop off for handicap is available. Please mention this to the parking attendants and they will direct you. As with any venue, handicap parking is limited.
Various food and merchandise vendors are available at the rodeo grounds. Adult beverages are available for purchase from the Payson Pro Rodeo Committee. Must be 21 and older and comply with the Arizona Liquor Laws. No beverages including water bottles are allowed in or out of the gates. (ARS Title 4 Liquor Law)
A FEW IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS