Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo: A Colorado Tradition Under the Summer Stars
A Legacy of Western Excellence in Sterling
When the summer heat settles over the eastern Colorado plains and the wheat fields turn golden, the community of Sterling prepares for its most anticipated western tradition: the Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo. Set against the backdrop of the historic Logan County Fairgrounds, this PRCA-sanctioned event has become a cornerstone of Colorado's Mountain States Circuit, drawing top competitors from across the region who vie for a share of the impressive $32,000 purse.
Scheduled for July 31-August 1, 2025, this two-day celebration of western heritage promises heart-stopping action, community spirit, and a fitting tribute to a local legend whose name continues to symbolize the values of rodeo excellence.
Honoring a Legend
The Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo stands as a living monument to a man whose contributions to Logan County's rodeo tradition left an indelible mark on the community. Dick Stull embodied the spirit of rodeo – its grit, determination, and unwavering commitment to western heritage. While his boots no longer kick up arena dust, his legacy lives on through this annual event that brings together generations of rodeo enthusiasts.
Local old-timers still share stories of Stull's dedication to the sport and his community, passing down tales of his character and contributions to younger generations who come to experience the excitement of the rodeo named in his honor. The memorial aspect of this rodeo serves as both a celebration of his life and a continuation of his passion for western sports.
Where Champions Compete
The Logan County Fairgrounds transforms into a showcase of world-class talent during the Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo. The arena, with its rich history of hosting some of rodeo's finest moments, provides the perfect setting for competitors looking to earn crucial points in the Mountain States Circuit standings.
As a PRCA-sanctioned event, the Dick Stull Memorial attracts seasoned professionals and rising stars alike. Cowboys and cowgirls arrive with dreams of championship buckles and qualification for the Mountain States Circuit Finals, knowing that a strong showing in Sterling can make all the difference in their season standings.
Seven Events, Countless Thrills
The Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo features all seven classic PRCA events, each offering its own brand of excitement and showcasing different aspects of ranching heritage and cowboy skill.
Bareback Riding opens each performance with a furious display of controlled chaos. Riders grip nothing but a rigging as they match their technique against the explosive power of specially bred bucking horses. With only one hand to balance their bodies against the violent twists and turns, these athletes demonstrate core strength and timing that defies imagination.
Steer Wrestling, often called the "big man's event," combines horsemanship with raw athletic ability. Cowboys chase down running steers, slide from horseback at full gallop, and use leverage and technique to bring the animals to a halt. When measured in mere seconds, every movement must be perfectly executed.
Team Roping showcases precision partnership between "headers" who rope the steer's horns and "heelers" who capture the hind legs. This event, with roots in practical ranch work, demonstrates the coordination between skilled ropers and their equine partners.
Saddle Bronc Riding, considered rodeo's classic event, tests riders with a traditional saddle and rein as they match rhythms with powerful bucking horses. Often described as "riding a hurricane," this event combines technical skill with artistic style.
Tie-Down Roping demonstrates the practical skills of working cowboys who must catch and temporarily restrain calves. The timed event requires speed, accuracy, and gentle handling of livestock.
Barrel Racing brings the cowgirls into the spotlight as they navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. The thundering hoofbeats and tight turns showcase the incredible communication between rider and horse as they shave fractions of seconds off their times.
The evening culminates with Bull Riding, rodeo's most dangerous eight seconds. Riders attempt to stay aboard 2,000-pound bulls bred specifically for their bucking ability. The matchup of human determination against raw animal power creates a spectacle that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Between competitive events, specialty acts keep the energy high. The rodeo clown provides not just comic relief but essential protection for fallen riders as a bullfighter. The grand entry showcases local riding clubs, and special performances celebrate the pageantry and patriotism that are hallmarks of PRCA rodeos.
The Stock: Unsung Athletes
Behind every great rodeo performance stands the often-unheralded athletes – the livestock. The Dick Stull Memorial partners with premier stock contractors who provide bucking horses, bulls, and timed-event cattle that give competitors a fair chance to showcase their skills.
These animal athletes receive the highest level of care, with specialized nutrition, transportation, and handling. Many develop reputations among competitors, who know that drawing certain animals might lead to championship scores – if they can make the whistle.
More Than Just Rodeo
The Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo experience extends far beyond the competitive events. The Logan County Fairgrounds comes alive with a festival atmosphere that celebrates western heritage in all its forms.
Arrive early to explore the vendor village, where artisans and western retailers offer everything from handcrafted leather goods to custom hats and jewelry. The marketplace showcases the craftsmanship and artistry that remain vital parts of western culture.
The tantalizing aromas of fairground favorites waft through the air as concession stands serve up classic rodeo fare. From barbecue to funnel cakes, the culinary offerings satisfy hungry fans between events.
Families with young cowboys and cowgirls will find plenty to enjoy, with kid-friendly activities that might include mutton bustin' (where youngsters try their hand at sheep riding) or calf scrambles. These youth events plant the seeds for the next generation of rodeo enthusiasts.
The 2025 Experience
The 2025 Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo promises to be an unforgettable experience, with performances scheduled for Thursday, July 31, and Friday, August 1. Gates typically open two hours before the main performance, giving attendees ample time to explore the grounds, visit vendors, and find their seats before the grand entry signals the start of the action.
The evening performances begin with the pageantry of the grand entry, where flags fly, patriotic music plays, and the contestants make their first appearance. From there, the events unfold in a carefully choreographed production that balances competitive action with entertainment.
Securing Your Spot
Tickets for the 2025 Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo will go on sale at the end of May 2025. Rodeo enthusiasts are encouraged to mark their calendars, as this popular event has been known to sell out, particularly for premium seating sections.
Several ticket options will be available, including general admission and reserved seating. Special rates for children, seniors, and families make this an affordable entertainment option. Tickets will be available for purchase directly through this website when sales begin.
For those seeking the ultimate rodeo experience, VIP packages offer premium seating, special access areas, and additional amenities that enhance the evening. These limited-availability options provide the best vantage points for catching every second of the action.
Planning Your Visit
The Logan County Fairgrounds offers ample parking for rodeo attendees, with designated areas for standard vehicles and oversized rigs. Accessible parking spaces are available for those with appropriate permits, ensuring that the rodeo experience is available to all fans.
The venue features modern facilities, including permanent and temporary restrooms throughout the grounds. First aid stations are staffed during all performances, providing peace of mind for families attending the event.
For those traveling from outside the Sterling area, the community offers various accommodation options, from hotels to campgrounds. The rodeo weekend makes for an excellent opportunity to explore this charming eastern Colorado community, with its rich agricultural heritage and small-town hospitality.
Community Spirit
What truly sets the Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo apart is its deep connection to the Sterling community. Local businesses proudly display their support through sponsorships, while volunteers contribute countless hours to ensure the event's success.
The economic impact extends throughout Logan County, with restaurants, hotels, and retailers benefiting from the influx of visitors. Beyond the financial benefits, the rodeo strengthens community bonds, bringing together residents who work side by side to showcase their hometown's western heritage.
Many local charitable organizations also benefit from the rodeo, with special promotions and partnerships that channel resources back into community needs. This spirit of giving back honors the legacy of the rodeo's namesake and reinforces the values of the western way of life.
A Tradition Worth Experiencing
Whether you're a lifelong rodeo fan or considering your first visit to a western sporting event, the Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo offers an authentic experience that connects spectators to America's western heritage. From the heart-stopping action in the arena to the community celebration surrounding it, this PRCA-sanctioned event embodies the spirit of rodeo at its finest.
As the summer sun sets over the Logan County Fairgrounds and the arena lights illuminate the eastern Colorado night, the legacy of Dick Stull lives on through the thundering hooves, skilled competitors, and cheering crowds that come together to celebrate this enduring tradition.
Mark your calendars for July 31-August 1, 2025, and prepare to become part of a Colorado rodeo tradition that continues to capture the imagination and hearts of all who experience it. The Dick Stull Memorial Rodeo isn't just a sporting event – it's a living connection to the values, skills, and community spirit that built the American West.