Rodeo returns to Gila County

Rodeo returns to Gila County
Last weekend, rodeo came back to Gila County, and it was worth the wait.
Bringing the Arizona State High School Rodeo Association back required real investment. The county upgraded its facilities to meet ASHR standards and spent considerable effort securing a spot on a competitive 2026 calendar. That effort paid off.
The fairgrounds were packed with livestock, big rigs and nearly 500 competitors from fifth grade to 12th grade, hailing from all over the state, along with a handful of our own from Globe and Peridot.
I talked to several locals who noted that the restaurants were full, and hotels and Airbnbs were booked. Even grocery stores and hardware stores saw an uptick in business. Both arenas ran full schedules across the two days: rough stock events in the afternoons, barrel racing and goat tying in the mornings, with more than 20 events overall. With the arenas just a short walk apart, spectators could bounce between them without missing a beat.
This is exactly the kind of event that reflects who we are as a community. It's rooted in Gila County's heritage, draws competitors and families from around the state, and puts us on the map in the best way possible.
Here's to hoping this becomes an annual tradition, and that our county and community continue to roll out the welcome mat for the Arizona State High School Rodeo Association for years to come.