Fascinating Fun Facts About Sheridan WYO Rodeo
The Sheridan WYO Rodeo is a beloved tradition that showcases the spirit of the American West, blending thrilling rodeo events with deep cultural heritage. Held annually in Sheridan, Wyoming, since 1931, it attracts top rodeo athletes, celebrates Western lifestyle, and honors Native American traditions. From its lively parades and street dances to the breathtaking competition in roping, bronc riding, and bull riding, the Sheridan WYO Rodeo is more than just a sporting event—it’s a vibrant community celebration steeped in history and pride. Here are 10 fascinating, fun facts about the Sheridan WYO Rodeo.
1. The Sheridan WYO Rodeo First Held in 1931
The Sheridan WYO Rodeo, first held in 1931, faced disruption during World War II. Although the U.S. entered the war in 1941 and many events nationwide were canceled, plans to hold the 1942 WYO Rodeo were still underway as of late April that year. However, when the Sheridan WYO Rodeo Board of Directors fell $2,900 short of their sponsorship fundraising goal, the rodeo was put on hold. After a brief hiatus, the WYO Rodeo resumed in 1944.
2. The Original Name of The Sheridan WYO Rodeo was ‘Bots Sots Stampede’
In 1944, rodeo action returned to Sheridan under a new name, “Bots Sots,” a Native American Crow term generally understood to mean “heap good.” This name change was intended to distinguish the event as one for local, working cowboys, marking a fresh start for the community after a wartime hiatus. Adding to its significance, all proceeds from the two-day rodeo were donated to World War II relief efforts.
3. The First Crow Indian Rodeo Queen was Elected by Popular Applause
Before 1952, a private selection committee chose the annual rodeo queen. To reduce political and social bias, an applause meter was introduced that year to decide the winner. The judging led to a three-way tie, but the tie was broken when cowboys gathered near the applause meter to support 17-year-old Lucy Yellow Mule, making her the first Native American to be crowned WYO Rodeo Queen.
4. Record-Breaking Attendance at the 2024 Sheridan WYO Rodeo
A significant milestone in the WYO Rodeo’s history, the 2024 Sheridan WYO Rodeo sold out for all four nights attracting over 21,000 fans per night. To put this growth into perspective, the inaugural WYO Rodeo in 1931 attracted around 5,000 spectators. This sharp rise in attendance highlights the rodeo’s enduring popularity and its expanding presence in Wyoming’s cultural landscape.5. The Thrilling Stunt of a Pilot at the 1936 Sheridan WYO Rodeo
Photo courtesy of Air & Space Magazine and Minnesota Aviation History Museum
Rodeo fans love a good thrill and Sheridan WYO Rodeo fans have witnessed some truly extreme spectacles over the years. In 1936, the Sheridan WYO Rodeo board enlisted Captain F.F. Frakes to crash an airplane into a burning building as part of the festivities. Despite attempts by the U.S. Department of Commerce to halt the stunt, Frakes carried out the daring feat, crashing into a specially designed structure, emerging unscathed, and flying off to Montana—a spectacle that left the crowd in awe.
6. The Sheridan WYO Rodeo is a Week-long Celebration
The WYO Rodeo offers much more than just professional rodeo action. The event calendar is packed with activities, including a lively tailgate party, exciting polo matches, a renowned parade, a pow wow at the historic Sheridan Inn, bed races, pancake breakfasts, a carnival, a boot kick-off, a 5k race and more. This diverse lineup ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the WYO Rodeo celebration.
7. Sheridan WYO Rodeo is on the Million Dollar Tour
The Million Dollar Tour features three of the five highest-paying regular season events on the PRCA circuit and includes two classifications: Gold and Silver rodeos. The Sheridan WYO Rodeo qualifies as a Silver rodeo, which is one of the key factors that attracts top-tier rodeo talent from across the nation. This prestigious status ensures the WYO Rodeo remains a standout event in the competitive rodeo landscape.
8. The Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast Began in 1975
The Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast is more than just a chance to enjoy some of the world’s finest pancakes—it’s also a dedicated fundraiser for a worthy cause. In past years, the event featured a pancake-eating contest, with the winner receiving the coveted ‘El Porko’ award. Who’s interested in bringing back this fun tradition? Raise your hand if you’d like to see it return!9. How the Sheridan WYO Rodeo Got Its Name
Have you ever heard of the Sheridan Old West Rodeo or Sheridan’s Frontier Jamboree? Probably not—these were some of the names considered before Frank Panetta coined the name Sheridan WYO Rodeo, which we know today. His successful idea earned him a $5 prize for his efforts.10. World Championship Indian Relay Races
The Indian Relay Races involves a team of three horses and four members: the rider, a mugger who helps catch the incoming horse, and two holders who manage the remaining horses. Riders race bareback, switching horses in a fast and intense relay format.
The relay is now one of the most anticipated events at the Sheridan WYO Rodeo, offering a thrilling, fast-paced spectacle for fans.
