by Jonathan Eberle | Jul 7, 2025 | News
By Jonathan Eberle |
After years of legal wrangling and stalled progress, Arizona State Representatives Quang Nguyen and Selina Bliss have announced the allocation of $15 million in state budget funding to renovate Prescott’s historic rodeo grounds—just in time for the World’s Oldest Rodeo.
The funding, part of the newly signed state budget, is designated for infrastructure upgrades at the city-owned site, including restrooms, parking facilities, drainage, and water and sewer systems. The rodeo grounds, which have not seen significant improvements in four decades, are set to receive an overhaul that lawmakers say will benefit both locals and the thousands of visitors who flock to the annual event.
“This funding finally delivers the economic benefits we fought for two years ago,” said Rep. Nguyen, reflecting on the legislative battle. “If the city hadn’t taken this to court, we could have been celebrating this year’s rodeo in a fully updated arena.”
Nguyen and Bliss originally secured the funding in 2023, but litigation surrounding the project delayed its implementation. The representatives revisited the issue this year, revising the language to ensure the funds were reapproved and their use clearly mandated.
“This is a win for Prescott and all of Arizona,” said Rep. Bliss. “The rodeo grounds are a cornerstone of our community and a symbol of our western heritage. The improvements will enhance the visitor experience while preserving an important cultural and economic asset.”
The World’s Oldest Rodeo, in operation since 1888, is one of Yavapai County’s most significant tourism draws. The grandstands currently in use were constructed in 1933, and local leaders have long called for modernization of the venue.
“This project preserves our western roots and ensures the rodeo will thrive for generations to come,” Bliss said. “Quang and I are proud to have delivered for District 1.”
Under the terms of the budget, the City of Prescott is required to begin upgrades promptly. The funds must be directed toward infrastructure improvements and enhancements that promote continued use of the rodeo grounds.
Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Terri Jo Neff | Apr 2, 2022 | News
By Terri Jo Neff |
Last month the Professional Bull Riders rode into the Gila River Arena in Glendale for a weekend event which drew attention to the work done by U.S. Border Patrol employees and the job opportunities the federal law enforcement agency offers.
The PBR U.S. Border Patrol Invitational on March 12-13 featured the top 35 riders in the world putting on a show for more than 18,500 spectators, many of whom worked for USBP. The event, however, was more than a fun time – it is a way recognize the efforts of local employees and promote the numerous types of careers available within the agency.
“U.S. Border Patrol uses PBR as a tool to educate fans about employment opportunities,” PBR spokesman Andrew Giangola told AZ Free News. “PBR is one of USBP’s most effective means for attracting qualified candidates to serve in protecting our nation, according to the agency.”
USBP Tucson Sector Chief John Modlin recently gave a shout out to the PBR and the Glendale event on Twitter, sharing a highlight video celebrating the weekend’s rodeo excitement along with the service of the men and women of USBP.
Giangola says the U.S. Border Patrol has been a title sponsor of one PBR event a year since 2018. But the agency’s involvement with PBR is not limited to just its title event, as the USBP Honor Guard participates at many events across the country and the agency sponsors some of the sport’s top riders.
This year, that sponsorship includes Cooper Davis, the 2016 world champion; Keyshawn Whitehorse, the 2017 rookie of the year; Daylon Swearingen, the 2019 college bull riding champion; and Andrew Alvidrez, who has been a top 30 rider the last three years.
And then there are the bullfighters – PBR’s name for the safety workers who are on the dirt in the arena with the bulls and riders. At the recent event in Glendale, the bullfighters donned U.S. Border Patrol vests and other regalia, drawing even more attention to the agency.
Those who missed last month’s PBR event will have another opportunity later in the year to watch professional bull riding when PBR’s new Team Series comes to the Gila River Arena on Oct. 14 to 16.
The three day event is part of a 10 event season which will run from July to November with eight founding teams, including the Arizona Ridge Riders.
“Each stop on the schedule will be a real happening, with plenty of fun events for fans and opportunities to come together to rally around their team,” said Sean Gleason, PBR’s CEO and Commissioner. “It will be exciting to watch the local fan base in Arizona grow.”
The league will host its first PBR Team Series draft on May 23 with the Ridge Riders having the sixth draft pick. Each team will be comprised of seven riders and three practice squad members, with five riders per team competing at each event.
All PBR Team Series events will be carried on either the CBS Television Network, streaming live on Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, or RidePass on Pluto TV. The team championship will be held in Las Vegas.
