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Colorado Vignette - ProRodeo Hall Of Fame, 2002 Induction

The ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy is located in Colorado Springs near the foothills of Pikes Peak, "America‚s Mountain". Adjacent to the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. It is the only heritage center in the world devoted to professional rodeo.

Rodeo fans see it as a sport filled with color, action, pageantry and tradition. To many, announcers, judges, photographers, contractors and others, it is an exciting business, but to the cowboy, it is a way of life both rigorous and hazardous. To those who achieve fame it can bring both glory and wealth.

Rodeo is a Spanish word, pronounced Ro-Day-O. Its origins were in America in the 19th century during ranchwork and the great cattle drives with inter-camp competitions on the range or at the end of the trail.

Hall visitors can see two multimedia presentations. The first takes you through the history of rodeo beginning with the trail drives of the 19th century. The second covers modern day rodeo including the National Finals. There is also an interactive kiosk displaying current world champions in action.

Between shows you may roam Heritage Hall, displaying both historic and modern cowboy gear and clothing. The largest gallery is the Hall of Champions, featuring contestants from each rodeo event. Also included are stock contractors, clowns, announcers, rodeo animals and other notables.

The 2002 Induction will take place Saturday, August 10 at 10:am in the garden of the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. The class of 2002 includes Quail Dobbs, Edith Happy Connelly and Jay Sisler as contract personnel; bull rider Gary Leffew; bareback rider Clyde Vamvoras; calf roper Jake McClure; and all around cowboy Joe beaver.

The ProRodeo Hall of Fame selection committee meets annually to determine inductees from hundreds of nominations and eligible contestants. The induction is free and open to the public. However, reservations are suggested. Call 719-528-4764 for additional information.

Induction is a wonderful opportunity to meet the legends of rodeo and the up and coming contestants who promise to be the stars of tomorrow.

Honorees are profiled with photographs, gear, personal memorabilia and trophies. The outside courtyard features retired rodeo animals and a full rodeo arena. Great western art is located throughout the museum.

At the Hall entry visitors will be greeted by the larger-than-life statue of The Champ, the legendary Casey Tibbs aboard the famed saddle bronc, Necktie (see cover). Tibbs was a nine-time world champion and one of America's most celebrated cowboys.

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