National Western Stock Show ~ Celebrating 107 Years!

January is a very special month in Denver. With frigid temps and snow covered peaks, Cowboys and Cowgirls from all over the state and beyond come together to celebrate the National Western Stock Show. For two weeks each January, the National Western showcases the best of the west including: Pro Rodeo, PBR, Draft Horses, Dancing Horses, Grand Prix, Wild West Show, Super Dogs, Mutton Bustin’, Coors Western Art Show & Sale and so much more! Below is a selection of my photographs of bull riders, bareback riders, saddle bronc riders, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, woman’s barrel racing and the Westernaires! This was my first attempt at photographing the Pro Rodeo and PBR. To enlarge, click on the photo. I welcome your comments!

Pro Rodeo

Timeline

“See how the National Western Stock Show has changed over the years by browsing our timeline from 1899 to 2010. Here are some excerpts”

1906	First show opened on Monday January 29 and ran for six days. Attendance was estimated at 15,000 and the Grand Champion steer sold for 33 cents a pound, 23 cents over the market price!
1931	The 25th National Western presented the first Rodeo in conjunction with the Livestock and Horse Show.
1954	The Westernaires made their first appearance at the Rodeo.
1981	The show increased to 12 days and included 21 Rodeo performances. A still-standing record of $301,000 was paid at auction for a Hereford bull.
2006	National Western celebrates its 100th anniversary! The show’s attendance reached 726,972 for the 16-day show and the grand champion steer sold for $75,000 or $58 per pound!