Professional rodeo competition returned to Bannock County this weekend as the Big Bucks Pro Rodeo brought PRCA-sanctioned events back to Pocatello for the first time in more than ten years. The Saturday afternoon matinee show at the Bannock County Fairgrounds drew hundreds of spectators, following a well-attended Friday evening performance.
Idaho cowboys claimed top positions in multiple events throughout the two-day competition, showcasing the state’s depth of rodeo talent. The weekend’s total prize distribution exceeded $42,000, with Lucas Cruz of New Mexico taking home the All Around Cowboy title.
Idaho Talent on Display
Announcer Kade Rogge, a Paul, Idaho native, said the return of professional rodeo to Pocatello holds special significance for Idaho’s rodeo community. Rogge described Idaho as having rodeo culture comparable to Texas and noted that the state’s competitors regularly prove themselves at national championship events.
According to Rogge, the Wilderness Circuit ranks among the most competitive of the 12 PRCA circuits. He said Idaho cowboys consistently demonstrate their abilities at the National Finals Rodeo and other premier competitions, despite professional rodeo sometimes being overlooked in the state.
Community Support and Tradition
Pocatello Mayor Mark Dahlquist attended Saturday’s matinee performance and expressed enthusiasm about the event’s return to the city. The mayor said organizers assembled a quality event and predicted continued growth for professional rodeo in Pocatello going forward.
The weekend featured full rodeo programming including bareback riding, which Rogge identified as generating particularly strong crowd energy. Bulls provided by Big Bucks and Summit Pro Rodeo competed throughout the weekend events.
Prize Distribution and Fan Engagement
In addition to cash prizes for competition winners, Big Bucks Pro Rodeo distributed custom belt buckles to top performers. The organization also awards belt buckles to enthusiastic fans, a practice Rogge noted has become uncommon in modern rodeo.
Saturday’s afternoon show included a horse race following the rodeo competitions, adding to the day’s entertainment value for attendees at the fairgrounds.
What Comes Next
The successful return of PRCA rodeo to Bannock County after more than a decade positions Pocatello to potentially host future professional rodeo events. Organizers and local officials emphasized that continued community support through ticket purchases will determine whether professional rodeo becomes a regular fixture in Pocatello again. The weekend’s strong attendance and enthusiasm from both competitors and spectators suggest appetite exists for ongoing professional rodeo in southeast Idaho.