President’s Message

Welcome to the 111th Clovis Rodeo.

Clovis Rodeo is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that gives back more the $350,000 annually to support local organizations including 4-H, FFA, Clovis Schools, Clovis Police, California High School Rodeo Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Break the Barriers, Boys Scouts of America, Valley Children’s Hospital, and that is just to name a few.

The Rodeo was started more than 110 years ago as a celebration for the community, a time to get together and celebrate our western way of life. That same spirit continues today. We get together to support our community and remember our history. Giving back and helping our community is a large part of why each of us is involved in the Rodeo today.

As one of the top 20 rodeos in the nation, we are a major stop for the cowboys and cowgirls on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) tour. We are known for having some of the best bucking stock in rodeo and that brings us some of the top competitors in the sport. Add to that, great concerts, cold beverages and great food including our popular tri-tip sandwiches, making Clovis the best place to be on the last weekend In April.

If you have been to the rodeo before we encourage you to invite friends and family, if you are new, we hope that you have a great weekend and you and your family and friends make this an annual event in the years to come. My family and I got involved back in 1999 as a volunteer working on workdays then with the Music Street boys doing parking under Clovis Rodeo director Joe Billalba during Rodeo week. Working with all the great volunteers and Sponsors over the years we have made many lasting friendships. The month of April brings plenty of excitement starting with the ranch rodeo, then jackpot roping and our annual Rodeo Blood drive. All before the Rodeo even starts.

My special thanks to our more than 90 rodeo sponsors who support us and help us make a difference in our community. We couldn’t do it without each one of you.

And my appreciation to the rodeo committee, volunteers and you our rodeo fans. Thank you for making the 110th Clovis Rodeo a success before it even happens.

We look forward to seeing all of you April 23-27 for a celebration of our community and our rodeo heritage.

Let’s get ready to Rodeo,

Clancy Wardle, President
Clovis Rodeo Association

Past Clovis Rodeo Presidents

The Association’s presidential term is a 12-month period beginning in May and ending with the completion of the Rodeo season the following year. When Jess Bigelow did not complete his term that began May 1948 – the Association’s Vice President Joe Moore completed the term.

Note: The Rodeo Association continues to seek photos of Jess Bigelow and Dr. J.R. Hoop, who served May 1942 – May 1943. If you can help, please contact the rodeo office at (559) 299-8838.