In western Oklahoma, as summer transitions to autumn, a long-standing tradition comes alive. For over 87 years, Elk City has hosted the Rodeo of Champions, an event showcasing skill and Western heritage that attracts more than 15,000 people annually. Held each Labor Day weekend at the Beutler Bros. Arena, this rodeo is a significant community event, managed by a dedicated team of volunteers and deeply rooted in the local culture.
The history of the Elk City Rodeo is closely tied to the Beutler family, a name recognized in rodeo for nearly a century. It began in 1929 when John Beutler, an Elk City rancher, acquired ten horses that proved to be natural buckers. To help during the Depression, he leased them to a rodeo in Clinton, Oklahoma, leading to the formation of the Beutler Brothers Rodeo Company. Today, the Beutler & Son Rodeo Company, run by Bennie and his son Rhett, supplies livestock for numerous rodeos nationwide, including their hometown event. Their animals are consistently chosen for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, highlighting their quality stock.
Each year, the Rodeo of Champions transforms Elk City into a lively center of Western celebration. Three nights of PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) rodeo action feature top cowboys and cowgirls competing for prizes and points in national titles. Spectators can watch all seven traditional rodeo events:
- Bareback Riding: A display of athletic horsemanship as cowboys ride a bucking horse for eight seconds.
- Saddle Bronc Riding: Often considered rodeo’s classic event, originating from the challenge of riding unbroken horses.
- Steer Wrestling: A test of strength and timing where cowboys drop from their horses to bring a steer to the ground.
- Tie-Down Roping: A quick event requiring precision as a cowboy ropes, dismounts, and ties a calf’s legs.
- Team Roping: Rodeo’s only team event, demanding coordinated effort between two riders.
- Women’s Barrel Racing: A timed event where cowgirls guide their horses rapidly around a cloverleaf pattern of three barrels.
- Bull Riding: A challenging event where cowboys attempt to stay on a bucking bull for eight seconds.
Outside the arena, the rodeo atmosphere extends into the streets with the popular Rodeo of Champions Parade on Saturday morning. Downtown Elk City fills with decorated floats, cowboys and cowgirls on horseback, and marching bands, as local residents and visitors gather to enjoy the celebration of their Western roots.
The Elk City Rodeo of Champions is more than just an event; it represents the determination of its competitors, the dedication of its volunteers, and the enduring spirit of a town that proudly maintains its Western way of life.
Friday, August 29, 2025
8 pm – 1st performance, Elk City Rodeo of Champions – Beutler Bros. Arena, Ackley Park – all kids 12 and under get in free to general admission seating with a Dr. Pepper can!
Saturday, August 30, 2025
10 am – Parade through downtown Elk City
8 pm – 2nd performance, Elk City Rodeo of Champions – Beutler Bros. Arena, Ackley Park
Sunday, August 31, 2025
8 pm – 3rd performance, Elk City Rodeo of Champions – Beutler Bros. Arena, Ackley Park –
