Ever wondered who’s the king of the rodeo ring?
From heart-stopping bull rides to precision lasso throws, these 15 icons epitomize cowboy excellence.
Saddle up and join the roundup as we dive into the sagas of rodeo royalty, one legendary ride at a time.
Wondering how these athletes train? Check out our list of must-have rodeo equipment to see the gear they rely on.
Best Rodeo Competitors:
- Trevor Brazile
- Ty Murray
- Larry Mahan
- Tuff Hedeman
- Don Gay
- Charmayne James
- Jim Shoulders
- Roy Cooper
- Dean Oliver
- George Strait
- Cody Ohl
- Fred Whitfield
- Joe Beaver
- Billy Etbauer
- Lane Frost
Table of Contents
#1 Trevor Brazile
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: November 16, 1976
- 🤠 Position/Role: Rodeo Competitor (All-Around Cowboy)
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 26-time PRCA World Champion, 14-time All-Around World Champion
Nicknamed “King of the Cowboys,” Trevor Brazile is a paragon of rodeo versatility. His excellent roping skills and dominant performances in all-around categories have defined his illustrious career. Brazile’s reign atop the rodeo world has been marked by his ability to consistently win and set records, showcasing unmatched endurance and skill.
Off the arena, Trevor is known for his down-to-earth personality and charitable undertakings. His impact on rodeo extends beyond competition as he mentors young riders and promotes the sport. Brazile’s commitment to the rodeo community and his family’s continued presence in the sport bolsters his legacy as a true ambassador of rodeo.
#2 Ty Murray
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: October 11, 1969
- 🤠 Position/Role: Rodeo Competitor (All-Around Cowboy)
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 9-time World Champion, 7-time All-Around Champion
Renowned as “The King of the Cowboys” before Trevor Brazile, Ty Murray’s remarkable athleticism and determination made him an all-time great in rodeo. His excellent bull riding and all-around ability made him a perennial favorite at the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) events. Murray combined raw talent with a rigorous work ethic, overcoming injuries to remain a standout competitor.
Ty Murray’s legacy extends beyond the oval, where his prominence has raised the profile of the sport. As a co-founder of the Professional Bull Riders (PBR), his post-competition career also reflects his dedication to advancing rodeo. Outside of rodeo, he has been involved in various TV roles and charity activities, contributing significantly to public awareness of the sport.
#3 Larry Mahan
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: November 21, 1943
- 🤠 Position/Role: Rodeo Competitor (All-Around Cowboy)
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 6-time All-Around World Champion, 2-time Bull Riding World Champion
Larry Mahan, a legendary name in rodeo, set a standard for excellence with his all-around performances during the 1960s and 1970s. His knack for competitive bull riding and consistent victories across different rodeo disciplines showcased his adaptability and skill. Mahan’s resilience and pursuit of excellence became a benchmark for future generations.
Beyond competition, Mahan has contributed to the industry through various educational programs and as a motivational speaker. His style and charisma both within and outside the rodeo arena extended his influence, making him a prominent figure in western fashion and culture. Through his endeavors, Mahan has put forward a lasting legacy not merely in rodeo, but also as a cultural icon in the western lifestyle.
#4 Tuff Hedeman
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: March 2, 1963
- 🤠 Position/Role: Bull Rider
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 4-time World Champion Bull Rider, 3-time PRCA World Champion, 1995 PBR World Champion
Tuff Hedeman is revered for his fearlessness and competitive spirit in the world of bull riding. Known for his confrontational riding style and ability to take on the most challenging bulls, Hedeman’s success in the arena made him a fan favorite. Despite facing multiple injuries, he continued to dominate the sport with his unwavering determination and showmanship.
Tuff Hedeman’s legacy includes his work in promoting rodeo and bull riding. After retiring, he turned his attention to mentoring young bull riders and contributing to the growth of the sport through event production and development. His personal life has been marked by resilience, overcoming the tragic loss of his friend and fellow competitor, Lane Frost, and using that experience to inspire others.
#5 Don Gay
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: September 18, 1953
- 🤠 Position/Role: Bull Rider
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 8-time PRCA World Champion Bull Rider
A titan of bull riding, Don Gay is celebrated for his record-setting eight World Champion titles in the PRCA. His incredible balance and mental toughness allowed him to dominate a generation of bull riding and remain a symbol of excellence in the event. Gay’s illustrious career defined the physical and mental fortitude required in the sport.
Following his storied career, Don has continued to contribute as a commentator, providing insights and enriching the viewing experience for rodeo fans. His outspoken nature has made him an iconic voice in rodeo broadcasting. Off the arena, Gay is committed to preserving the heritage of the sport and engaging in community service, adding to his commendable legacy in and out of competition.
#6 Charmayne James
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: June 23, 1970
- 🤠 Position/Role: Barrel Racer
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 11-time Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) World Barrel Racing Champion, ProRodeo Hall of Fame Inductee
Charmayne James is a trailblazer in barrel racing, known for her impeccable timing and close partnership with her horses, most notably Scamper. Her remarkable career includes 11 consecutive world titles, a feat that speaks to her unparalleled skill and consistency in the sport. James transformed barrel racing into an event highlighting accuracy and speed, becoming one of the most successful female rodeo athletes in history.
Apart from her competitive achievements, James has been instrumental in promoting barrel racing and advocating for women in rodeo. Her clinics and training programs have empowered numerous aspiring barrel racers, passing on her knowledge and passion for the sport. Her inspiring journey, marked by overcoming early-age competition pressure and the demands of maintaining top-level performance, reinforces her status as an icon and mentor in rodeo.
#7 Jim Shoulders
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: May 13, 1928
- 🤠 Position/Role: Rodeo Competitor (All-Around Cowboy)
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 16-time World Champion, including 5 All-Around titles
Jim Shoulders, often regarded as one of the greatest cowboys in rodeo history, amassed an astonishing 16 world championships during his career. Known for his strength and gritty determination, Shoulders excelled in both bull riding and bareback riding categories, setting records that would stand for decades. His legacy is defined by his dominance in the sport and his role in shaping modern rodeo.
Shoulders’ impact transcended the rodeo arena as he worked to promote the sport and develop its appeal. Through his efforts in commercial endorsements and appearances, he significantly advanced the rodeo’s visibility and reputation. His contribution to the sport continues to be recognized through various halls of fame inductions, and his life story remains an inspiration to new generations of rodeo enthusiasts.
#8 Roy Cooper
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: November 13, 1955
- 🤠 Position/Role: Rodeo Competitor (Calf Roper)
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 8-time PRCA World Champion, including 6 All-Around titles
Roy Cooper, also known as the “Super Looper,” is celebrated for his unmatched skill in calf roping. His lightning-fast loop and precise timing earned him multiple world championships and a reputation as one of the best ropers in the history of rodeo. Cooper’s innovative roping techniques transformed the event and set new standards for future competitors.
One of rodeo’s most respected contestants, Cooper also made his mark as a devoted mentor to young ropers, including his own children, who have followed in his footsteps. His personal life embraces the quintessence of the rodeo spirit: family, community, and the perpetuation of the cowboy heritage. Roy Cooper’s lasting influence is seen not just in his competitive records but in his dedication to fostering the next generation of champions.
#9 Dean Oliver
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: September 5, 1923
- 🤠 Position/Role: Tie-down Roper, Team Roper
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 8-time World Champion Tie-down Roper (1953, 1955–1956, 1960, 1962–1964, 1969), ProRodeo Hall of Fame inductee (1979)
Dean Oliver, known as a rodeo legend and innovation driver, made significant contributions to the art of tie-down roping. He is revered for his exceptional timing, quick hands, and strategic approach to roping and tying calves, setting new standards in the sport during his competitive years.
Oliver’s influence can be seen in the techniques used by current generations of ropers. Outside the arena, his induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame cements his status as one of the greats. Despite commercial endorsements and involvement in rodeo beyond retirement, Oliver maintained a relatively controversy-free career focused on sportsmanship and progress within rodeo.
#10 George Strait
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: May 18, 1952
- 🤠 Position/Role: Team Roping Competitor (non-professional)
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Hall of Fame induction into the Team Roping Championships, Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame inductee (2003)
George Strait, often referred to as the “King of Country,” is not only a country music icon but a rodeo enthusiast as well. Although known primarily for his music career, his passion for team roping earned him recognition in the rodeo world. Strait’s style is characterized by precision and a deep respect for traditional roping techniques.
Strait’s legacy in rodeo is intertwined with his musical influence, as he often celebrated the cowboy lifestyle in his songs, further popularizing the sport. His charitable contributions through the George Strait Team Roping Classic demonstrate his dedication to both his hobbies and philanthropic endeavors, benefiting various charitable organizations.
#11 Cody Ohl
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: August 19, 1973
- 🤠 Position/Role: Tie-down Roper
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 6-time PRCA World Champion Tie-down Roper (1997, 2001, 2003, 2006–2008), PRCA World Champion All-Around Cowboy (2001)
Cody Ohl is celebrated for his blistering speed and aggressive roping style, often delivering record-breaking performances that leave audiences in awe. His signature quick-tie technique and fierce competitiveness have set the bar high for tie-down ropers everywhere.
Ohl’s career has not been without adversity, having overcome serious injuries to return to champion form, a testament to his resilience as an athlete. Beyond the rodeo, Ohl has contributed to the sport through instructional clinics and camps, ensuring his knowledge and experience are passed down to aspiring ropers. His personal life includes engaging with fans and advocating for the growth of rodeo.
#12 Fred Whitfield
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: August 5, 1967
- 🤠 Position/Role: Tie-down Roper
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 8-time PRCA World Champion Tie-down Roper (1991, 1995–1996, 1999–2000, 2002, 2005, 2012), PRCA World Champion All-Around Cowboy (1999)
Fred Whitfield is known for his finesse and strategic approach in the arena, combining mental toughness with physical skill to dominate tie-down roping competitions. His consistency and determination have earned him multiple world championships and made him a role model in the sport.
Breaking racial barriers in a predominantly white sport, Whitfield’s success challenged stereotypes and inspired a wider demographic to pursue rodeo. He has also been open about the racial challenges he faced, discussing them in his autobiography. His legacy extends to his advocacy for diversity and inclusion in rodeo, as well as his work with youth through various charitable endeavors.
#13 Joe Beaver
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: October 13, 1965
- 🤠 Position/Role: Tie-down Roper, Team Roper
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 8-time PRCA World Champion (Tie-down Roping: 1985, 1987–1988, 1992–1993, Team Roping: 1995, All-Around: 1995–1996), ProRodeo Hall of Fame inductee (2000)
Joe Beaver, affectionately known as “The Living Legend,” has carved out a place as one of the top rodeo athletes with his impressive technique and veteran savvy in both tie-down and team roping events. His combination of speed, timing, and tactical skill brought him numerous championships.
Besides his competitive success, Beaver’s influence stretches to his role as a commentator and coach, contributing to the sport’s popularity and the development of future champions. Off the field, Beaver’s personable character and dedication to mentoring young ropers have made a lasting impression on the community, enriching the culture and tradition of rodeo.
#14 Billy Etbauer
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: December 10, 1963
- 🤠 Position/Role: Saddle Bronc Rider
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 5-time PRCA World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider (1992, 1996, 1999, 2000, 2004), ProRodeo Hall of Fame inductee (X)
Billy Etbauer is regarded as one of the greatest saddle bronc riders in the history of the sport, known for his remarkable balance and fluid riding style that seemed to harmonize with the toughest broncs. His longevity and consistency in the saddle have stamped his name firmly in the annals of rodeo history.
Etbauer’s career is distinguished by his championship victories and his induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame, which acknowledges his dominance in the event. Off the field, Billy has a reputation for his gentlemanly demeanor and commitment to promoting and supporting rodeo, influencing numerous up-and-coming riders.
#15 Lane Frost
- 🌍 Nationality: American
- 🎂 Date of Birth: October 12, 1963
- 🤠 Position/Role: Bull Rider
- 🏆 Career Highlights: PRCA World Champion Bull Rider (1987), inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame (1990)
Lane Frost’s legacy as a bull rider is both heroic and heart-wrenching. Known for his competitive spirit and natural talent, Frost’s promising career was tragically cut short at age 25 when he died after a bull riding accident at the Cheyenne Frontier Days. His trademark technique and indomitable spirit made him an icon of the sport.
Frost’s influence continued after his death, as his life story inspired the popular movie “8 Seconds,” and his legacy promotes safety improvements in bull riding. His memory lives on, with tributes like the Lane Frost Health and Rehabilitation Center in Oklahoma, illustrating the lasting impact he had on the rodeo community and beyond.
FAQ
Who is the best Rodeo player of all time?
Trevor Brazile is the best Rodeo player of all time. Here’s a link to our article on why we think Trevor Brazile is the best basketball player of all time. His record-breaking achievements and versatility in the arena are unmatched.
Who are the top 10 greatest Rodeo players of all time?
Trevor Brazile, Ty Murray, Larry Mahan, Tuff Hedeman, Don Gay, Charmayne James, Jim Shoulders, Roy Cooper, Dean Oliver, and George Strait are the top 10 greatest Rodeo players of all time. These icons have defined the sport with their exceptional skills and numerous championships.
Who is the most famous female Rodeo player?
Charmayne James is the most famous female Rodeo player. Known for her unprecedented success in barrel racing, she has won multiple world titles and has left an indelible mark on the sport.
