Thanks for asking!
In alphabetical order, the three "Oldest Rodeo" contenders are:
Payson, Arizona
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According to the Rim County Chamber of Commerce, "Rim Country is where
rodeo began. Known since its inception in 1884 as "August Doin's, the
"World's Oldest Continuous Rodeo" is a world famous event that will
celebrate its 119th consecutive year in 2003.
Originally held in a meadow, the rodeo was soon relocated to Payson's
unpaved Main Street. Wagons were used to enclose the area and provide
seating for the spectators. An extra attraction: gambling tables were
set up in the open street, especially the intersection of McLane Road
and Main Street."
Rim County Chamber of Commerce
http://www.rimcountrychamber.com/rodeoPageN.htm
Pecos, Texas
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The Pecos Enterprise claims that the West of the Pecos Rodeo is the
World's Oldest: "The rodeo parade will kick off this year's West of
the Pecos Rodeo. The world's oldest rodeo, first held in 1883, will
hold its official opening at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday."
Pecos Enterprise, July, 1999
http://www.pecos.net/news/arch99/063099p.htm
Prescott, Arizona
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"The first formalized "Cowboy Tournament" ever held was in Prescott,
Arizona on July 4, 1888. These "Cowboy Contests" continued and were
planned, promoted, and carried out by a committee of local merchants."
This rodeo is featured as the main event of Prescott Frontier Days,
and is currently organized by the Yavapai County Fair Association,
which trademarked the name "Worlds Oldest Rodeo®" in 1985.
World's Oldest Rodeo History
http://www.worldsoldestrodeo.com/history.html
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Yeehah!
---larre |
