WATCH: Reno Rodeo's Tribute to Cotton Rosser
Hall of Fame Stock Contractor and Rodeo Presenter Cotton Rosser has passed away at age 93, his family announced Wednesday.
Rosser was raised in Long Beach, California and from an early age, he knew he wanted to be a cowboy. When he was a boy, he would clean stalls at local stable in exchange for a chance to ride horses.
Rosser and Flying U have long been known for their innovation in presenting rodeo. Among the ideas introduced by Rosser were corporate sponsors, year-end winners, announcers on horseback and more.
In 1981, Rosser's horse Classic Velvet was the PRCA Bareback Riding Horse of the Year and Buckskin Velvet was honored as the Saddle Bronc Horse of the Year the very next year. In 1985, Rosser himself was honored as the PRCA Stock Contractor of the Year.