Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines, Senator Tim Sheehy, Congressman Ryan Zinke, and Congressman Troy Downing have collectively urged the Montana State Legislature to designate American Rodeo as the official state sport of Montana. In a letter sent to the legislature, they emphasized the cultural and historical importance of rodeo in Montana.

The letter states: "We write to express our strong support for establishing American Rodeo as Montana’s official state sport. Montana’s vibrant rodeo scene is an emblem of our great Western heritage, with the sport’s deep ties to Montana’s ranching history reflecting our legacy as a frontier state. As such, we consider it fitting to designate rodeo as our state’s official sport."

The lawmakers highlighted the role of rodeo in showcasing traditional skills that have been part of Montanan life for generations. "For generations, Montanan ranchers have relied on roping and steering skills to drive cattle. Today, Montanans continue this tradition on ranches, local rodeos, and in professional arenas," they wrote.

They also pointed out how rodeo represents a key aspect of life in Montana: "Rodeo displays the horsemanship inherent to our Montana way of life and celebrates our rich outdoor heritage. From veteran steer wrestling to mutton busting, rodeos are open to Montanans young and old."

The legislators hope that by making rodeo an official symbol alongside others like the bitterroot flower and grizzly bear, its legacy will be preserved for future generations. "We hope that Montana’s legislature will join us in recognizing the cultural and historical significance that American Rodeo has for Montanans," they concluded.