About Us

 Since our inaugural junior rodeo in Shonto, Arizona in 1995, Holgate's Junior Rodeo has been a staple of summer entertainment, held nearly every year. This year marks our 28th event, a testament to our enduring legacy. While we have previously been affiliated with the Western Junior Rodeo Association (WJRA) and the Indian Junior Rodeo Association (IJRA), this year we are proud to host an Open Junior Rodeo. Our contestants, ranging from ages 5 to 18, bring youthful energy and competitive spirit to the arena.

Contestants compete in one division, with each division featuring four to seven events. The Midget division is always a crowd favorite, showcasing Wooly (sheep) Riding, Goat Tagging, Barrel Racing, and Flag Racing. The Senior division, with events such as Bronc Riding, Bull Riding, Barrel Racing, Breakaway Roping, Tie Down Roping, and Team Roping, mirrors the age groups and events of adult rodeos.

Our rodeo consistently attracts over 100 contestants annually, peaking at over 180 in our highest turnout year. We proudly offer complimentary Holgate’s Junior Rodeo t-shirts to the first contestants who pay their entry fees. Additionally, we award event winners in all categories and recognize the all-around winner in each division.

The roots of our family rodeo trace back to when my four brothers—Joe, TJ, Herb, Earl—and I competed in various rough stock events, including Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc, and Bareback Bronc Riding. Our sister, Lorena Noelson, also competed as a barrel racer. After retiring from competition, our families sought to preserve the rodeo tradition by hosting a Junior Rodeo, inspired by our children's participation in local junior rodeos.

The Junior Rodeo is a cherished way for our families to connect with our heritage, deeply tied to the land and livestock. Rodeo fosters strong family relationships and cooperation, serving as a reunion and social event for our extended family.

Over the years, many contestants who have competed and won at our rodeos have advanced to high school, college, and professional rodeos, achieving success at each level. Some have pursued other professions, yet they remain connected to the western lifestyle, ready to saddle up for ranch work or introduce their children to this tradition. We take pride in all the children who have participated in our rodeos.

Ray Holgate, Co-founder, Holgate’s Junior Rodeo