PRCA Last Stand Rodeo: Where Legends Are Made in Coulee City May 23-25, 2025 | Coulee City Rodeo Grounds | Coulee City, WA ## The Spirit of the West Lives On As the spring sun warms the rolling hills of Eastern Washington, the small town of Coulee City prepares for its annual transformation. Pickup trucks will soon line the streets, cowboy hats will dot the landscape, and the unmistakable energy of rodeo season will electrify the air. The PRCA Last Stand Rodeo isn't just another stop on the Columbia River Circuit—it's where determination meets tradition in one of the Northwest's most authentic western experiences. "There's something special about Coulee City," says PRCA Commissioner Tom Williams. "When cowboys pull into town, they know they're part of something that goes beyond the competition. This rodeo has heart, and you feel it the moment you arrive." Set against the backdrop of the scenic Grand Coulee area, the Last Stand Rodeo has earned its reputation as a must-attend event for both competitors and spectators. The 2025 edition, scheduled for Memorial Day weekend (May 23-25), promises three days of world-class rodeo action with over $26,750 in prize money up for grabs. ## A Showcase of Champions The Last Stand Rodeo brings together the finest talent in professional rodeo. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, competitors will test their mettle across all seven standard PRCA events: Bareback Riding: Watch as cowboys match their strength and technique against the explosive power of specially bred bucking horses. With only one hand gripping the rigging, these athletes demonstrate incredible core strength and balance during the required eight-second ride. Steer Wrestling: Also known as "bulldogging," this event showcases pure athletic power as contestants leap from horseback onto a running steer, using technique and strength to bring the animal to the ground. Look for times under five seconds from the top competitors. Team Roping: The only true team event in professional rodeo pairs a header and heeler in a display of precision and coordination. Success requires perfect timing as they work to rope a steer's horns and hind legs in the fastest possible time. Saddle Bronc Riding: Often called rodeo's classic event, saddle bronc riding evolved directly from the task of breaking wild horses for ranch work. The fluid, rhythmic spurring motion of top riders makes this one of the most technically challenging events. Tie-Down Roping: A demonstration of horseback skills with practical ranching roots, tie-down roping requires speed, precision, and teamwork between horse and rider as they work to rope and restrain a calf in record time. Barrel Racing: Watch as skilled horsewomen and their equine partners navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels at breathtaking speeds. With penalties for knocked-over barrels, this event demands both speed and precision. Bull Riding: The most dangerous eight seconds in sports closes each performance with an explosive showdown between man and beast. Riders must stay aboard a spinning, bucking bull with only a flat braided rope for support. Local favorite Jake Thompson, who finished in the top 15 in the Columbia River Circuit last season, is expected to make a strong showing in the saddle bronc competition. "The Last Stand has always been good to me," Thompson says. "There's nothing like competing in front of your home crowd, and these fans know their rodeo." The Last Stand Rodeo will also feature the crowd-pleasing Mutton Bustin' competition, where young cowboys and cowgirls (ages 4-7) test their riding skills on sheep. This fan-favorite event often produces the biggest cheers of the night and plants the seeds for the next generation of rodeo champions. ## More Than Just Competition While the athletic prowess on display in the arena forms the heart of the Last Stand Rodeo, the event offers a complete western experience that extends far beyond the competition. Each performance begins with a spectacular opening ceremony featuring precision horseback riding, patriotic tributes, and the grand entry parade of contestants. The PRCA's top-ranked rodeo clown, "Wild Bill" Jackson, will keep the crowd entertained between events with his hilarious antics and daring barrel work during the bull riding. Throughout the weekend, attendees can enjoy: - Live country music performances after Friday and Saturday night shows - Western vendors offering authentic gear, artwork, and souvenirs - A variety of food options from BBQ to Mexican cuisine - Interactive educational displays about rodeo history and western heritage - Kids' zone with mechanical bull riding, face painting, and roping practice "We want families to make a day of it," explains event coordinator Sarah Martinez. "The competition is world-class, but we've created an environment where even first-time rodeo attendees will feel welcome and entertained from the moment they arrive until the last bull ride." ## Secure Your Seat for the Action Tickets for the 2025 PRCA Last Stand Rodeo will go on sale March 23, 2025, right here on this website. For an event that typically sells out every performance, early purchase is strongly recommended. The intimate setting of the Coulee City Rodeo Grounds means there truly isn't a bad seat in the house, but premium seating options offer distinct advantages for the ultimate rodeo experience. ### Ticket Options: General Admission - Adult (13+): $25 - Youth (6-12): $15 - Children 5 and under: FREE with paid adult admission - Family Pack (2 adults, 2 youth): $70 (save $10) VIP Experience - Premium seating in covered grandstand - Exclusive access to VIP hospitality area - Commemorative program and souvenir - Meet-and-greet with select contestants - Price: $75 per person Box Seats - Reserved box seating for groups of 4-6 - Prime viewing location - Personal wait service - Price: $300-$450 per box Weekend Passes - Access to all performances (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) - Adult: $65 (save $10) - Youth: $40 (save $5) ### Special Discounts: - Military/Veterans: $5 off with valid ID - Seniors (65+): $5 off general admission - Groups of 10+: 10% discount (must purchase together) "The energy in the stands is part of what makes this rodeo special," says PRCA announcer Mike Brandon, who will be calling the action for his fifth consecutive year at the Last Stand. "When you get a full house cheering on these athletes, it elevates everyone's performance. There's nothing like being there in person." For those planning to attend, the rodeo offers accessible seating options for guests with mobility challenges. Companion seating is available, and service animals are welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines. The grounds feature paved pathways to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. ## A Legacy of Excellence The PRCA Last Stand Rodeo has deep roots in the Coulee City community, where ranching and western heritage remain integral to local identity. As a PRCA-sanctioned event, the rodeo adheres to the highest standards of animal welfare and competitive integrity. "We're proud to sanction events like the Last Stand," says PRCA President Steve Knowlton. "These community rodeos are the backbone of our sport. They connect our professional athletes with the fans who support them and preserve western traditions for future generations." The rodeo's impact extends beyond the three-day event. Proceeds support local youth agricultural programs, and the economic boost to area businesses helps sustain the community throughout the year. Local hotels, restaurants, and shops typically report their busiest weekend during the rodeo, with visitors coming from throughout the Northwest and beyond. ## Join the Tradition Whether you're a lifelong rodeo enthusiast or curious about experiencing this uniquely American sport for the first time, the PRCA Last Stand Rodeo offers an unforgettable weekend of western action, entertainment, and hospitality. Mark your calendars for May 23-25, 2025, and be ready when tickets go on sale March 23. From the thundering hooves of the grand entry to the final bull ride on Sunday afternoon, the Last Stand Rodeo promises moments that will stay with you long after the dust settles. For the latest updates on contestants, entertainment, and special promotions, follow the PRCA Last Stand Rodeo on social media or visit the official website at www.laststandrodeo.com. The PRCA Last Stand Rodeo is a proud member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and is sanctioned as an official Columbia River Circuit event for the 2025 season. --- Event Details: - Dates: May 23-25, 2025 - Location: Coulee City Rodeo Grounds, Coulee City, WA - Performances: Friday 7pm, Saturday 2pm & 7pm, Sunday 1pm - Tickets: On sale March 23, 2025 - Website: www.laststandrodeo.com Come for the competition. Stay for the experience. The PRCA Last Stand Rodeo—where legends are made.