Rotary Round-Up: Service at the World's Oldest Rodeo

Prescott Frontier Rotary Club members exemplify service by supporting the World’s Oldest Rodeo through volunteering—upholding a cherished annual tradition while standing up for the local community. Their dedication reflects Rotary’s values and Prescott’s enduring Western spirit.
Prescott Frontier Rotary Club members exemplify service by supporting the World’s Oldest Rodeo through volunteering—upholding a cherished annual tradition while standing up for the local community. Their dedication reflects Rotary’s values and Prescott’s enduring Western spirit.
 
Held annually since 1888 at the Prescott Rodeo Grounds, this iconic rodeo attracts more than 35,000 spectators with thrilling events including bull riding, barrel racing, bronc riding, and mutton bustin’, all under a unifying Western spirit.
 
Every summer in Prescott, Arizona, the scent of sagebrush and sizzling barbecue fills the air as cowboys, cowgirls, and rodeo fans from across the country gather for the World's Oldest Rodeo—a proud tradition dating back to 1888. But behind the scenes of bucking broncs and roaring crowds, another group of champions quietly makes its mark: the Prescott Frontier Rotary Club.

This year, the rodeo was celebrating its 138th anniversary, and the Rotary Club was there in full force. Wearing western gear and cowboy hats perched with purpose, the volunteers brought their signature mix of good humor, grit, and service.

Volunteers are essential to the rodeo’s success, supporting everything from parking and ticketing to arena operations and hospitality. Your fellow Rotarians served as bartenders, covering all Rodeo bars on Saturday, July 5, 2025.

But the Rotary Club’s presence wasn’t just about hospitality—it was about heart. The club donates proceeds from the rodeo concession stands to local charities, from youth leadership programs to veteran support services.

As the sun peered behind Thumb Butte, the national anthem echoed through the stadium. Rotarians stood among the crowd—hats over hearts, dusty boots planted firmly in the dirt—and watched bronc riders thunder into the ring. Their work might have been behind the scenes, but it was deeply woven into the fabric of the event.

In true Rotary spirit, they weren’t there for the spotlight. They were there to serve—with cowboy hats, community pride, and a whole lot of heart.

Because in Prescott, tradition doesn’t just ride—it gives back. And the Prescott Frontier Rotary Club rides right alongside it.