Flagstaff Pro Rodeo: A Community-Celebrated Event

The excitement reached new heights during the 12th Flagstaff Rodeo, where cheers and lively energy created an unforgettable atmosphere. The event has been brought to life by a dedicated nonprofit team of volunteers, led by Christen Daulton, the president of the rodeo. “It’s been a relentless effort, late nights filled with dreams,” she expressed. Each event, from barrel racing to bull riding, is a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving their Western heritage and providing a memorable experience.

This year’s rodeo included a Cowboy Mount Shooter Association (CMSA) event. On Thursday’s Retro Family Night, as well as during Friday’s First Response Night and Saturday morning, participants, including 10 children and 50 adults from across Arizona, showcased their skills. A standout was a seasoned shooter from Flagstaff. Saturday featured a Stars n Stripes night, which ended with live music from a band hailing from Phoenix.

Kevin Westfall, the Phoenix Fire Chief and an attendee for eight years, remarked, “The 2025 Flagstaff Rodeo was like a book.” He noted that the excitement went beyond the rodeo itself; Saturday night’s dance was electrifying, highlighting the vibrant energy present at the event. He’s already looking forward to next year.

Daulton, alongside her husband, introduced a new shooter last year. “This was our first event and it exceeded what we had in mind. There was a real sense of camaraderie, excitement, and pure Western magic. It reaffirmed our beliefs,” she shared. During the Cowboy Mount Shoot, participants wield two 45-caliber single-action revolvers to pop balloons from horseback.

Other rodeo events featured a wide range of activities such as barrel racing, bull riding, bareback riding, and team roping, showcasing the diverse skills of the competitors.

For over a decade now, Flagstaff’s pro rodeo has become more than just a local attraction; it symbolizes dedication and community spirit. “As the founder, dedicating 13 years to grow this rodeo into an anticipated summer tradition has been a privilege,” Daulton added.

Coconino County Manager Andy Bertelsen noted that the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo actively supports youth sports, rodeo athletes, and various local organizations including Naz Suicide Awareness and Prevention, as well as the Horses Heroes and Hope initiative.

Brian Ebbling, a nurse practitioner in Flagstaff, shared the experiences of visitors like Canadian Nadia Davis and her husband, who were thoroughly impressed by the rodeo. “I’ve never seen anything quite like this. It was amazing,” Davis said. “Watching the kids ride sheep was wild. We came from Prescott and this turned out to be one of the best rodeos I’ve ever experienced.”