Built from the ground up by an all-volunteer nonprofit team, the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo is the product of a lot of hard work.
Built from the ground up by an all-volunteer nonprofit team, the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo is the product of a lot of hard work. “It was a tireless effort of late nights and shared dreams,” said Flagstaff Pro Rodeo President Kristen Daulton. “Every barrel race, bull ride, mounted shoot and rodeo queen coronation is brought to life by individuals who believe in preserving Western heritage and creating unforgettable experiences for our town.”
The events included Retro Family Night on Thursday, First Responders’ Night on Friday and a free Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association (CMSA) event on Saturday morning, with 10 kids and 50 adults participating from around Arizona, including the Salty Shooters of Flagstaff. Saturday’s Stars N Stripes Night was followed by live music from the Western Fusion Band from Phoenix.
“The 2025 Flagstaff Rodeo was one for the books,” said retired Phoenix Fire Captain Kevin Westfall, who has attended the rodeo for eight years as part of a family get-together. “Some of the most talented cowboys and cowgirls we’ve ever seen took the arena by storm delivering an unforgettable show. As always, the highlight didn’t stop with the rodeo, Saturday’s rodeo dance was a blast with the Western Fusion Band that lit up the night and kept the crowd on their feet. The Westfalls are already counting the days until next year’s gathering.”
Daulton and her husband launched the Salty Shooters last year. “This was our very first event and it exceeded our expectations. There was camaraderie, excitement and pure Western magic. It reaffirmed everything we believe in – community, celebration and pushing boundaries while holding fast to tradition,” she said. “In Cowboy Mounted Shooting, we carry two 45 single action revolvers and we shoot balloons from our horses.”
Other rodeo performances included Barrel Racing, Bull Riding, Bareback, Saddle Bronco, Breakaway, Team Roping, Steer Wrestling and Tie Down Roping.
“For over a decade, the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo has stood as more than just a local event – it has become a symbol of what passion, perseverance and community can achieve. As the founder and current president, I’ve had the privilege of dedicating 13 years to growing this rodeo into Flagstaff’s most anticipated summer tradition,” added Daulton.
“We’re very happy to have hosted this year’s Flagstaff Pro Rodeo at the historic Fort Tuthill County Park,” said Coconino County Manager Andy Bertelsen. “It was truly a destination event that drew participants and spectators from all over the West to enjoy a weekend in our beautiful county.”
The Flagstaff Pro Rodeo supports several local youth sports teams, youth rodeo athletes, high school cheer squads, We Care NAZ Suicide Awareness and Prevention, Shadows Foundation, Horses Heroes and Hope, Hozhoni Foundation and Flagstaff Family Food Center.
This is our third year coming to the rodeo and we love it,” said Flagstaff nurse practitioner Bryan Ebeling. “We live just 10 minutes away, so we bring the whole family and it’s such a great outdoor experience.”
Canadians Nadia Davis and her husband were very impressed with the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo. “I’ve never seen anything like it. It was amazing,” she said. “Watching the children riding sheep was wild. We’re staying in Prescott but came up to Flagstaff to see the rodeo. This was insane and one of the best rodeos I’ve ever seen in my life.” FBN
By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN
Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography: Flagstaff Pro Rodeo President Kristen Daulton hits her target with a successful event and in mounted shooting.
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