The Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 schedule is now available! Get ready for an unforgettable experience filled with thrilling rodeo action and live entertainment. The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo is the only touring rodeo that exclusively showcases the talents of black cowboys and cowgirls. This year’s event will be held in Denver, Colorado, from July 18-20, 2025, at the National Western Complex.
The rodeo will feature a variety of events, including bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, and team roping. There will also be a special performance by the world-famous Bill Pickett Clown Posse. In addition to the rodeo, there will be a variety of food and beverage vendors, as well as live music and entertainment. The Bill Pickett Rodeo is a family-friendly event that is sure to entertain people of all ages. There will be something for everyone to enjoy, so don’t miss out on this exciting event!
Tickets for the Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 are now on sale. Get your tickets early to avoid disappointment. For more information, visit the Bill Pickett Rodeo website. The Bill Pickett Rodeo is a great way to experience the rich culture of black cowboys and cowgirls. The rodeo is also a great way to support the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation, which provides scholarships to young black cowboys and cowgirls. So come on out to the Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 and enjoy an unforgettable experience!
Gates Open and Pre-Show Entertainment
The gates to the Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 will open at 12:00 pm on all three days of the event, allowing ample time for attendees to explore the grounds and catch the exciting pre-show entertainment.
Prior to the rodeo performances, a lively atmosphere will fill the air as local bands and musicians entertain the crowd with a mix of traditional country music and contemporary hits. Food vendors will offer a variety of delectable options, including mouthwatering barbecue, juicy burgers, and refreshing beverages.
For families with children, there will be a dedicated area offering fun and interactive activities such as face painting, balloon art, and a petting zoo. The pre-show entertainment will culminate in a thrilling parade featuring the rodeo’s star performers, colorful floats, and lively drill teams, setting the stage for an unforgettable rodeo experience.
Pre-Show Activities Timeline
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 12:00 pm | Gates open |
| 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm | Live music performance by local band |
| 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm | Family activities in designated area |
| 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm | Parade |
Grand Entry
The Grand Entry is a traditional rodeo event that showcases the colorful history and pageantry of the American West. At the Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025, this thrilling spectacle will take place at the start of each performance, where hundreds of riders, performers, and animals will parade through the arena in a vibrant display of horsemanship, Western attire, and cultural heritage.
Participating Groups and Performances
The Grand Entry features a diverse range of participants, including:
- Mounted Color Guards: Carrying the flags of the United States, Texas, and other nations, these riders represent the patriotic spirit of the rodeo.
- Chuckwagon Teams: These historic vehicles, once used by cowboys on the cattle drives, are now driven by drivers in period attire, showcasing the culinary traditions of the American West.
- Native American Warriors: In honor of the rich heritage of the region, Native American warriors on horseback will display traditional tribal regalia and perform ceremonial dances.
- Rodeo Royalty: The reigning Miss Rodeo America and Miss Rodeo Texas will make appearances, representing the beauty and grace of the Western way of life.
As the Grand Entry progresses, the arena will be filled with the sounds of drums, horns, and the cheers of the crowd, creating an atmosphere of excitement and celebration that sets the stage for the thrilling rodeo events to follow.
Roughstock Events
Bareback Riding
Bareback riding is a rodeo event where riders attempt to stay mounted on a bucking horse for eight seconds. The rider holds onto the horse’s bare back with one hand and uses their other hand to control a rein. Bareback riding is considered one of the most challenging rodeo events due to the unpredictability of the horses and the high level of skill required to stay mounted.
Saddle Bronc Riding
Saddle bronc riding is similar to bareback riding, but the rider uses a saddle with a horn. The saddle helps the rider maintain their position on the horse, but it also makes it more difficult to control the horse. Saddle bronc riding requires a high level of strength and balance, as well as an ability to read the horse’s movements.
Bull Riding
Bull riding is the most popular and well-known rodeo event. Riders attempt to stay mounted on a bucking bull for eight seconds. The bull is typically more powerful and unpredictable than a horse, making bull riding one of the most dangerous rodeo events. Bull riders use their upper body strength, balance, and agility to stay mounted on the bull.
| Event | Description |
|---|---|
| Bareback Riding | Riders attempt to stay mounted on a bucking horse for eight seconds. |
| Saddle Bronc Riding | Riders use a saddle with a horn to help them maintain their position on a bucking horse. |
| Bull Riding | Riders attempt to stay mounted on a bucking bull for eight seconds. |
Barrel Racing
Barrel racing is a rodeo event where a mounted rider and horse race around a cloverleaf pattern of three barrels, navigating a course as quickly and accurately as possible. The rider must complete the pattern in the correct order: left turn around the first barrel, right turn around the second barrel, and a final left turn around the third barrel. The rider and horse must also stay within a set time limit to qualify for the next round.
Barrel racing is a popular event at rodeos across the United States. It requires a high level of skill and coordination between the rider and horse, as well as quick reflexes and decision-making abilities. The horses used in barrel racing are typically well-trained Quarter Horses or Quarter Horse crosses, bred for speed and agility.
Events
Barrel racing is typically divided into four different events:
- Open: Open to all riders, regardless of age or experience level.
- Novice: Open to riders with less than a certain amount of experience or winnings.
- Junior: Open to riders under the age of 18.
- Senior: Open to riders over the age of 50.
The barrel racing competition at the Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 will feature all four of these events, with each event offering a different level of challenge and competition.
| Event | Age Range | Experience Level |
|---|---|---|
| Open | All ages | All levels |
| Novice | All ages | Less than a certain amount of experience or winnings |
| Junior | Under 18 | All levels |
| Senior | Over 50 | All levels |
Breakaway Roping
Breakaway roping is a rodeo event in which a mounted cowboy or cowgirl ropes a calf by the head and “breaks away,” or stops their horse, before the calf reaches the end of the arena. The event is timed, and the fastest time wins. Breakaway roping is a popular event at rodeos, and it is often considered to be one of the most difficult events to master.
Criteria for Judging
Breakaway roping is judged on a number of criteria, including:
- The time it takes to rope the calf
- The distance between the horse and the calf when the rope is caught
- The height of the rope when it is caught
- The control of the horse
- The overall appearance of the run
Equipment
Breakaway ropers use a variety of equipment, including:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Saddle | A special saddle designed for breakaway roping |
| Bridle | A bridle with a bit that allows the horse to stop quickly |
| Reins | Reins that are long enough to allow the roper to reach the calf |
| Rope | A special rope designed for breakaway roping |
| Calf | A calf that is between 6 and 8 months old |
Team Roping
Team roping is a rodeo event that involves two riders working together to rope a steer. One rider, known as the header, ropes the steer’s horns, while the other rider, known as the heeler, ropes the steer’s hind legs. The team with the fastest time wins.
Head Rope
The header uses a lariat, which is a rope made of rawhide or nylon, to rope the steer’s horns. The lariat is typically about 30 feet long, and it has a loop at one end.
Heeler
The heeler uses a shorter rope, called a heel rope, to rope the steer’s hind legs. The heel rope is typically about 20 feet long, and it has a loop at one end.
Teamwork
Team roping requires a high degree of teamwork and communication between the header and the heeler. The header must rope the steer’s horns quickly and accurately, while the heeler must rope the steer’s hind legs before the steer can run away.
Times
The time for a team roping run starts when the header ropes the steer’s horns and ends when the heeler ropes the steer’s hind legs. The team with the fastest time wins.
Scoring
Team roping is scored on a point system. The following table shows the points awarded for each part of the run:
| Action | Points |
|---|---|
| Header ropes steer’s horns | 10 |
| Heeler ropes steer’s hind legs | 10 |
| Team ropes steer in less than 10 seconds | 10 |
| Penalty for steer running away before being roped | -5 |
Steer Wrestling
Steer wrestling, also known as bulldogging, is a rodeo event that tests a cowboy’s strength, speed, and agility. It involves a cowboy on horseback pursuing a steer, dismounting, and wrestling it to the ground in as little time as possible.
The Seven-Second Barrier
The seven-second mark is a significant milestone in steer wrestling. Cowboys who can consistently wrestle steers to the ground in under seven seconds are considered among the best in the sport. The fastest steer-wrestling time ever recorded is 2.4 seconds, set by Guy Allen at the National Finals Rodeo in 2005.
Breaking the seven-second barrier requires a combination of factors, including:
- Exceptional athleticism and agility
- Precision timing and accuracy
- A well-trained horse that can quickly position the rider
- A steer that is not too large or too agile
- Favorable weather conditions
- Years of practice and experience
- A combination of strength, technique, and luck
| Year | Fastest Time (seconds) | Cowboy |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 2.4 | Guy Allen |
| 2018 | 2.6 | Stetson Wright |
| 2020 | 2.5 | Will Lummus |
Bull Riding
The Bill Pickett Rodeo is one of the most prestigious Black rodeos in the country. The event features a variety of competitions, including bull riding. Bull riding is a rodeo event in which a rider attempts to stay on the back of a bull for as long as possible. The bulls are typically specially bred for rodeo competition and are known for their strength and agility.
The Basics of Bull Riding
There are a few basic rules to bull riding. First, the rider must stay on the bull for at least eight seconds. Second, the rider must control the bull with one hand only. Third, the rider must not touch the bull with his free hand or any other part of his body. If the rider breaks any of these rules, he will be disqualified. The rider’s score is based on how long he stays on the bull and how well he controls the bull.
The Eight Seconds
The eight seconds in bull riding are the most important. During this time, the rider must stay on the bull’s back and keep his hand in the bull rope. The rider must also control the bull’s movements and keep the bull from bucking him off. The rider’s balance and strength are tested during the eight seconds.
The Judges
The bull riding competition is judged by three judges. The judges score the rider on a scale of 0 to 100. The judges’ scores are added together to determine the rider’s final score.
The Prizes
The winner of the bull riding competition is awarded a prize. The prize may vary depending on the rodeo, but it typically includes a cash prize and a belt buckle. The belt buckle is a symbol of the rider’s accomplishment and is worn with pride.
Mutton Busting
Mutton busting is a thrilling event that pits young cowboys and cowgirls against woolly sheep. Children ages 4 to 7 can participate in this exciting rodeo sport. Dressed in protective helmets and vests, the young riders attempt to stay mounted on the sheep for the longest amount of time. The sheep, however, are known for their unpredictable antics, and the resulting tumbles and laughter provide endless entertainment for spectators.
Mutton busting is typically held in an enclosed arena. The sheep are selected for their size and temperament, and they are fitted with a special rig that prevents them from running too far. The riders are then given a brief safety briefing and are lined up in front of the sheep.
On the cue of the rodeo announcer, the riders mount their sheep and the fun begins. The sheep buck and twist, trying their best to dislodge their tiny riders. The young cowboys and cowgirls hold on for dear life, with each second on the sheep’s back counting. The rider who stays mounted for the longest amount of time is declared the winner.
Mutton busting is a fun and exciting way for children to learn about rodeo and practice their riding skills. It is also a great way for spectators to enjoy the thrill of the rodeo without the danger of a bull or bronc ride.
Eligibility
Children ages 4 to 7 are eligible to participate in mutton busting. They must be able to sit upright on a saddle and have good balance.
Safety
Mutton busting is a relatively safe sport, but there are some inherent risks. Children are required to wear protective helmets and vests. The sheep are also fitted with a special rig that prevents them from running too far.
Scoring
Riders are scored on their ability to stay mounted on the sheep for the longest amount of time. The rider who stays mounted for the longest period is declared the winner.
Prizes
Mutton busting winners typically receive a trophy or ribbon. Some rodeos also offer cash prizes or other incentives.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips for young cowboys and cowgirls who want to succeed in mutton busting:
| Tip |
|---|
| Practice riding on a horse or pony before mutton busting. |
| Wear comfortable clothing that won’t restrict your movement. |
| Listen to the rodeo announcer’s instructions carefully. |
| Stay calm and focused during the ride. |
| Don’t be afraid to fall off. It’s part of the fun! |
Tough Enough to Wear Pink Special Events
The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Special Events are a series of events held throughout the year to raise money for breast cancer research.
These events include:
- The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Rodeo
- The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Barrel Race
- The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Team Roping
- The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Breakaway Roping
- The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Calf Roping
- The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Steer Wrestling
- The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Bull Riding
- The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Saddle Bronc Riding
- The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Bareback Riding
- The Tough Enough to Wear Pink Ranch Rodeo
These events are held in conjunction with the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, the only touring rodeo in the United States.
The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo is a professional rodeo that showcases the talents of African-American cowboys and cowgirls.
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Tough Enough to Wear Pink Rodeo | June 16-18, 2025 | Denver, Colorado |
| Tough Enough to Wear Pink Barrel Race | June 17-18, 2025 | Denver, Colorado |
| Tough Enough to Wear Pink Team Roping | June 18, 2025 | Denver, Colorado |
| Tough Enough to Wear Pink Breakaway Roping | June 18, 2025 | Denver, Colorado |
| Tough Enough to Wear Pink Calf Roping | June 18, 2025 | Denver, Colorado |
| Tough Enough to Wear Pink Steer Wrestling | June 18, 2025 | Denver, Colorado |
| Tough Enough to Wear Pink Bull Riding | June 18, 2025 | Denver, Colorado |
| Tough Enough to Wear Pink Saddle Bronc Riding | June 18, 2025 | Denver, Colorado |
| Tough Enough to Wear Pink Bareback Riding | June 18, 2025 | Denver, Colorado |
| Tough Enough to Wear Pink Ranch Rodeo | June 18, 2025 | Denver, Colorado |
Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 Schedule
The Bill Pickett Rodeo is an annual rodeo that celebrates the legacy of Bill Pickett, an African-American cowboy who was a pioneer in the sport of rodeo. The rodeo will be held on the following dates in 2025:
- Friday, July 4th
- Saturday, July 5th
- Sunday, July 6th
The rodeo will be held at the Denver Coliseum in Denver, Colorado. The rodeo will feature a variety of events, including bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, and team roping. There will also be a special performance by the Bill Pickett Rodeo Band.
Tickets for the Bill Pickett Rodeo are available now. For more information, please visit the rodeo’s website.
People Also Ask About Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 Schedule
When is the Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025?
The Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 will be held on July 4th, 5th, and 6th.
Where is the Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 being held?
The Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 will be held at the Denver Coliseum in Denver, Colorado.
What events will be featured at the Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025?
The Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 will feature a variety of events, including bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, and team roping.
How can I get tickets for the Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025?
Tickets for the Bill Pickett Rodeo 2025 are available now. For more information, please visit the rodeo’s website.
