EAGLE, Colo. – The Eagle County Fairgrounds is the perfect setting for some of the most wild rodeo action ever seen in Colorado.
It’s home to the Eagle County Fair and Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 22-Saturday, July 25, at Johnette Phillips Arena on the Eagle County Fairgrounds. Surrounded by the beautiful Rocky Mountains, it’s as picturesque as any event in ProRodeo and a regular showcase for the world’s greatest stars.
That’s thanks in large part to the local hospitality and the production and bucking stock from Pete Carr Pro Rodeo, the longstanding stock contractor in Eagle.
“I believe what makes our rodeo special is the people in this community and the support they give us,” said Tanya Dahlseid, a key member of the Eagle County staff. “I also think Pete Carr and his staff have made it so amazing with the quality and level of the performances. We get compliments from all over about our rodeo.”
The Carr firm has been recognized as one of the very best in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, having been nominated as Stock Contractor of the Year each of the past two seasons. The cowboys like the Carr animal athletes so much, they’ve selected 27 to buck at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, a record for animals from one stock contractor at ProRodeo’s grand finale.
“When I hear the name Pete Carr, I think of something spectacular and very professional,” Dahlseid said. “The whole group of Pete’s staff that comes is great; it’s an honor to have them here. I express that to a lot of people in the county.
“We’re very fortunate to have Pete Carr.”
A number of the top cowboys in the game agree. Six seasons ago, eight-time NFR qualifier Ryan Gray tied the world record with a 94-point ride on Carr’s Grass Dancer. A few weeks ago, Gray matched moves with reigning Bareback Horse of the Year Dirty Jacket for 92 points to win in Pecos, Texas; it was the highest marked ride so far in 2015.
But the mountain air makes for amazing feats. Four-time world champion Bobby Mote was 90 points to win the Eagle bareback riding title on Betty Boop. High scores seem to be the norm inside Johnette Phillips Arena.
“It’s pretty incredible to see these animals when they’re here,” Dahlseid said. “Pete has incredible horses and bulls, and his staff is pretty impressive and amazing, too. It brings a whole different level of professionalism to our event.”
This year’s rodeo will feature clown Brian Potter and Mustang Millionaire winner Bobby Kerr, whose work with wild mustangs has become a showcase of true horsemanship skills and the mindset of horses. Together, Potter and Kerr are a major piece of the entertainment package.
It all adds up to a great event for local fans and those who make their way to Eagle County as a summer vacation destination.