Our History

Barnes Rodeo in pasture

The Cherokee PRCA Rodeo is the longest, continuously running PRCA Rodeo in Iowa.

Our roots go back to the 1950’s when the Barnes PRCA Rodeo began producing their first rodeos out on the ranch near Peterson, Iowa. In 1965, the rodeo was moved to Cherokee and became the Cherokee Chamber PRCA Rodeo. The Cherokee Chamber of Commerce took over fundraising and organization of the rodeo and continued with Barnes PRCA Rodeo to produce the rodeo and serve as stock contractor.In late 2022, the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce released the Rodeo Committee to form a separate, Iowa non-profit entity to continue on with this tradition.

Today, the mission of Cherokee Rodeo, Inc. is to promote agriculture by hosting an annual family-friendly rodeo experience that educates and entertains the public, supports Iowa youth, showcases Midwestern livestock heritage, and provides year-round educational support within the community. Fundraising has begun to provide scholarships and grant opportunities for our students who choose to pursue a post-secondary ag-related degree or begin an ag-related business in our county. 2023 marks the 57th Annual Cherokee PRCA Rodeo.

bull rider

Executive Board

President - Sheryl Leonard

Vice President - Megan Pigott

Secretary - Amanda Morales

Treasurer - Allan Dessel

Director - Abbi Ogren

Director - Dennis Knop

Director - Al Morales

Cherokee Rodeo Committee Members

Brittany Boyle

Trisha and Ben Martin

James Jennes

Molly Patterson

Brennon Prentice

Jackie Stephens

Shari Yungbluth

Stephanie Zarr

Pat Langschwager

Ashlyn Nelson