#United States #Black Cowboys #8 Seconds Rodeo #Ivan McClellan #Portland, Oregon; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Exciting Expansion of the 8 Seconds Rodeo

The renowned 8 Seconds Rodeo is making waves this year as it returns for its third installment, promising to be the most exhilarating one yet! Scheduled for June 15th in Portland, Oregon, and October 11th in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this significant event is set to honor and celebrate the dynamic contributions of Black cowboys on a grand national stage.

With a capacity of 8,000 enthusiastic fans at each venue, this year’s rodeo will be more than just a competition—it will be a cultural celebration that showcases the incredible talent, strength, and heritage of Black rodeo participants. Hosted by the lively comedienne X Mayo, the event is sure to keep the energy high as guests indulge in a night filled with action, entertainment, and unity.

Highlights of the 2025 Rodeo

The 8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo promises thrills with an array of competitive events, including:

• - Bull Riding
• - Bareback Bronco Riding
• - Barrel Racing
• - Mutton Bustin'

This year's prize purse boasts a remarkable $60,000, attracting top-tier athletes from across the nation who are eager to claim their stake in this exciting showdown.

Ivan McClellan, the visionary founder of this rodeo, eloquently stated, “This rodeo is about celebrating Black excellence in the Western world and providing a platform for future generations of Black rodeo athletes to thrive.” The expansion to new cities signifies a further commitment to sharing the vibrant culture and exciting history of Black cowboys.

Athletes to Watch

Among the participants, some promising stars are expected to shine:

• - Jaelah and Jiyah, the Bluebird Riders, aged 11 and 13, are making headlines for their astonishing performance in barrel racing, having outpaced many seasoned competitors.
• - Tank Adams, known for his robust and fearless bull riding style, brings not only his talent but also his rich family legacy to the arena.
• - A.V. Horton, from Hope, Arkansas, is emerging as a bull riding sensation with aspirations to compete in the National Finals Rodeo, illustrating the determination and dedication of young rodeo talents.

Partnerships and Community Engagement

In addition to fierce competition, the 8 Seconds Rodeo is deeply committed to nurturing future talent within the rodeo community. This year, they are organizing clinics in Oregon, offering young athletes guidance from seasoned professionals, aiming to hone their skills and advance their careers without any cost barrier.

Notably, the support from Crown Royal, the official whisky of the rodeo, is a testament to their commitment to uplifting Black cowboy culture. They will present a special award to organizations promoting Black cowboys, reinforcing a spirit of generosity synonymous with their brand.

Also, Tecovas, a longstanding ally, will return to support the event, placing emphasis on honoring the traditions of the Western lifestyle while fostering an expansive audience appreciation.

The Cultural Movement

The 8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo is more than an event—it's a movement that intertwines Western heritage with modern culture, music, fashion, and art, promising an electrifying atmosphere and a celebration of Black history.

Tickets are available for early access through their official website, providing fans an opportunity to be part of this groundbreaking event. Join the community of 8 Seconds Rodeo on Instagram at @eightsecs and don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration of culture, competition, and camaraderie.

About 8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo

Founded by photojournalist Ivan McClellan, the 8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo stands as a beacon for Black cowboy culture across the United States. It unites history with modern-day excellence, offering an engaging platform that resonates deeply with communities nationwide. As it continues to grow in size and impact, the rodeo fosters an environment of inspiration, connection, and celebration.

Conclusion

As the rodeo prepares for its thrilling comeback, anticipation builds—not just for the competition, but for the immense cultural exchange and the celebration of Black identities within the rodeo sphere. Attend the 8 Seconds Rodeo and witness an unforgettable experience filled with heritage, passion, and community spirit!