Days of ’47 Rodeo: Preview, Format, and What to Watch For

The Utah Days of ’47 Rodeo are underway and it offers a rare opportunity for rodeo athletes. The 2023 rodeo marks only the eighth time in the history of rodeo where competitors will have an opportunity to compete for Gold, Silver or Bronze Medals. The first two times were at the 1988 and 2002 Olympics. The other five times came at the Utah Days of ’47 Rodeo (2017-2019, 2021-22).

Here is what you can expect while tuning into the rodeo this weekend.

Format

There will be one go-round with a Finals on the last day of the rodeo. The top two contestants based on the highest scores and fastest runs from each of the first four performances will advance to the Finals where eight competitors will compete for the Gold Medal.

What to Watch For

Performance 1 (July 19)

A pair of No. 1 athletes in the respective event highlights the opening performance. In Bareback riding you have rookie sensation and No. 1 man in the World Keenan Hayes competing against Donny Proffit, Kody Lamb, and others.

In Steer Wrestling, current World No. 1 Dalton Massey will be competing against fellow top 15 athlete Tucker Allen.

Saddle Bronc Riding features 2022 World Champion Zeke Thurston going up against Dawson Hay, Shorty Garrett, Issac Diaz, Riggin Smith, and more.

Performance 2 (July 20)

On night two in Utah you can watch the likes of Cole Franks, Jayco Roper, Dean Thompson, Leighton Berry, and Tanner Aus all compete in Bareback Riding.

Bull Riding has a nice field featuring Tristen Hutchings, Brady Portenier, Roscoe Jarboe, and Jared Parsonage, who is coming off of a win at the Calgary Stampede.

Performance 3 (July 21)

Make sure to tune in on Friday for Stetson Wright competing in both Saddle Bronc Riding and Bull Riding. Competing alongside Wright in Bull Riding will be Ky Hamilton, the legend JB Mauney.

How to Watch & Broadcast Schedule

You can watch every performance LIVE on The Cowboy Channel and The Cowboy Channel+ App. For a full broadcast schedule click HERE.