Breakaway Tradition: The 2025 Crooked River Roundup Showcases Elite Roping Talent
The PRCA-sanctioned event returns to Prineville with high-stakes competition and family entertainment
When the summer sun begins its long arc across the Central Oregon sky, the Crooked River Roundup Breakaway competition stands ready to write its next chapter in rodeo history. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association is proud to present this premier breakaway roping event, set for June 26-28, 2025, at the storied Susie Yancey Pape Arena in Prineville, Oregon.
A Tradition of Excellence in the Columbia River Circuit
The Crooked River Roundup has long been a cornerstone event in the PRCA's Columbia River Circuit, drawing top competitors from across the Northwest and beyond. The 2025 edition promises to continue this legacy, with a substantial $10,000 purse that will attract the sport's elite breakaway ropers to showcase their skills in one of rodeo's most technically demanding disciplines.
"The Crooked River Roundup has always represented the perfect blend of competitive rodeo and community celebration," says Columbia River Circuit Director Sarah Johnson. "The addition of breakaway roping as a featured event has only enhanced what was already one of our circuit's most beloved stops."
Breakaway roping—where competitors must rope a calf from horseback with timing measured to the hundredth of a second—has seen explosive growth in recent years. The event combines lightning-fast reflexes, precision horsemanship, and the kind of split-second decision-making that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Three Days of High-Stakes Competition
Each evening of the three-day competition will feature its own slate of talented competitors, with preliminary rounds building toward Saturday night's championship finale. The format allows fans to witness the progression of the competition, from early-round strategy to the all-out effort of the finals.
Last year's champion, Melissa Beckman, set a Roundup record with a blistering 1.9-second run in the finals. When asked about returning to defend her title, Beckman didn't hesitate: "Prineville has some of the best fans in rodeo. The energy in that arena makes you want to give everything you've got."
The competition draws both established stars and rising talent. Local favorite Taylor Jenkins, who grew up just outside Prineville, has been training all year for her hometown rodeo. "Competing at the Crooked River Roundup is something I've dreamed about since I was a little girl," Jenkins says. "There's nothing like roping in front of your friends and family."
Beyond the Arena: A Full Western Experience
While the breakaway competition serves as the centerpiece, the Roundup offers a complete western experience that extends well beyond the arena dirt. Each day begins with pre-rodeo activities including roping demonstrations, western heritage exhibits, and meet-and-greets with competitors.
The Roundup grounds transform into a celebration of western culture, with vendors offering everything from custom leather goods to western fashion. Local artisans display handcrafted jewelry, artwork, and home décor that capture the spirit of the American West.
Food options abound, with local favorites like the Prineville Cattlewomen's Association serving up legendary beef sandwiches alongside a variety of food trucks offering everything from classic barbecue to contemporary cuisine with a western twist.
Families will find plenty to keep younger cowboys and cowgirls entertained, including a dedicated Kids' Corral featuring stick horse races, face painting, and interactive educational exhibits about rodeo and ranching life.
Live music sets the soundtrack for the weekend, with regional country and western bands performing before and after each evening's competition. The Saturday night after-party has become legendary, with dancing under the stars continuing long after the final rope has been thrown.
Securing Your Seat for the Action
Ticket Information
Tickets for the 2025 Crooked River Roundup Breakaway will go on sale April 26, 2025, right here on this page. The PRCA recommends early purchase, as this event has sold out in previous years.
Several ticket options will be available to suit every budget and preference:
General Admission: Perfect for fans who enjoy the flexibility to move around the arena and experience different vantage points. Adult tickets start at $25, with discounted rates for seniors, military personnel, and children under 12.
Reserved Seating: Guarantees your specific seat location for the duration of the event. These premium tickets start at $40 and provide excellent sightlines of all the action.
VIP Packages: The ultimate Roundup experience includes premium seating, exclusive access to the Competitors' Corral hospitality area, commemorative merchandise, and a pre-event tour of the stock pens. Limited VIP packages will be available at $95.
Family Packages: Special pricing for families includes four general admission tickets, four meal vouchers, and Roundup souvenirs at a significant savings over individual purchases.
Early bird discounts will be available for the first two weeks of ticket sales, offering a 15% savings on all ticket types. Additionally, group rates apply for parties of 10 or more, making the Roundup an ideal outing for church groups, corporate teams, or extended family gatherings.
"We've structured our ticketing to ensure the Roundup remains accessible to everyone in our community while offering premium experiences for those who want something special," explains Roundup Committee Chair Michael Donovan. "From the casual fan to the die-hard rodeo enthusiast, we've got options that work for everyone."
When purchasing tickets, fans can also add on parking passes, event programs, and exclusive Roundup merchandise to complete their experience. The online ticketing system will allow for easy seat selection and mobile delivery of tickets, though traditional will-call pickup will remain available at the Roundup office.
Making the Most of Your Roundup Experience
For out-of-town visitors, the Roundup coincides with peak tourist season in Central Oregon, making early planning essential. Prineville offers several lodging options ranging from historic hotels to modern accommodations, though these fill quickly during Roundup weekend.
The Roundup has partnered with several local hotels to offer special rates for attendees. The code "ROUNDUP2025" can be used when booking at participating properties to access these discounts. For those preferring a more rustic experience, limited RV camping will be available at the Roundup grounds, with reservations opening the same day as ticket sales.
Parking at the venue is plentiful but can fill quickly on peak nights. Premium parking passes, available for purchase with tickets, guarantee close-in spaces and expedited exit after the event. A free shuttle service will run from downtown Prineville and designated satellite parking areas throughout each day of competition.
Community Impact and Partnerships
The Crooked River Roundup represents more than just world-class rodeo competition—it's a cornerstone of the community calendar and an economic driver for the region. Local businesses eagerly anticipate the influx of visitors, with many offering special "Roundup Week" promotions and extended hours.
"The economic impact of the Roundup ripples throughout our community," notes Prineville Chamber of Commerce Director James Wilson. "From hotels and restaurants to retail shops and service providers, virtually every business in town sees a boost during Roundup week."
The event also serves as a fundraising opportunity for numerous local organizations. The Prineville Rotary Club, 4-H, FFA, and several school programs all participate as volunteer groups, with proceeds supporting their year-round activities.
Corporate partnerships play a crucial role in making the Roundup possible. Major sponsors include regional businesses like Cascade Natural Gas, Les Schwab Tires, and Hayden Homes, alongside national brands with strong ties to western heritage. These partnerships allow the Roundup to maintain its high production standards while keeping ticket prices accessible.
A Legacy of Excellence
As the 2025 Crooked River Roundup Breakaway approaches, the PRCA is proud to continue its association with this iconic event. The combination of world-class competition, community celebration, and western heritage creates an experience that resonates with both longtime rodeo fans and newcomers alike.
"What makes the Crooked River Roundup special is how it honors tradition while embracing the future of our sport," says PRCA Commissioner Thomas Williams. "The growth of breakaway roping represents the evolution of rodeo, and Prineville has been at the forefront of showcasing these incredible athletes."
When the gates swing open this June, the Susie Yancey Pape Arena will once again become the center of the rodeo universe for three unforgettable days. From the thundering hooves and lightning-fast ropes to the camaraderie and celebration that extend beyond the arena, the Crooked River Roundup Breakaway promises to deliver the authentic western experience that has defined it for generations.
Mark your calendars for April 26, when tickets go on sale right here. Secure your place at one of rodeo's premier events and become part of the continuing legacy of the Crooked River Roundup.
For more information on the 2025 Crooked River Roundup Breakaway, including competitor profiles, event schedules, and special promotions, check back regularly as the event approaches. The PRCA is proud to sanction this outstanding competition as part of our commitment to preserving and promoting the sport of rodeo.