The Daniel Dopps Memorial PRCA Rodeo: A Community Treasure Honoring a Legacy
In the heart of Mountain Home, Idaho, the Daniel Dopps Memorial PRCA Rodeo stands as a cherished tradition that combines the thrill of rodeo with the power of community spirit.
Now in its 19th year, this event not only showcases the best in cowboy skill and Western heritage but also carries on the legacy of Daniel Dopps, a beloved figure whose memory continues to inspire and unite the community.
About The Rodeo
The 19th Annual Daniel Dopps Memorial PRCA Rodeo is a two-day performance event, where contestants compete for the highest scores and fastest times to be crowned winners.
The 2024 edition boasts the highest payout in the rodeo's history, attracting around 230-240 contestants primarily from the Pacific Northwest, with some traveling from across the nation. The event typically draws about 4,200 fans over the two days.
The rodeo features an experienced staff, including Announcer Scott Allen, Funny Man Wolfey Selvester, and the Legacy Pro Rodeo as the stock contractor.
The Treasure Valley Leather Slappers provide a pre-rodeo performance, and the event includes a calf scramble and goat tail untying.
Gates open at 6:00 p.m., with the pre-rodeo starting at 7:30 p.m. and the main event at 8:00 p.m. Parking is free, and pre-sale tickets are available at D&B Supply in Mountain Home and online.
Origins and Community Involvement
The Daniel Dopps Memorial PRCA Rodeo was founded in 2006, a year after Daniel Dopps' passing.
The Dopps family, close friends with local rodeo company owners, were inspired to start the event after hearing about the need for a large-scale community event in Mountain Home.
With the support of Daniel's family and the entire community, the rodeo was established.
The community worked together to improve the arena grounds, which had not been used for 20 years, to prepare for a professional rodeo.
The City of Mountain Home has been instrumental in developing and enhancing the arena over the years.
Giving Back to the Community
The rodeo's true legacy lies in its commitment to the community.
Close to $60,000 in scholarship money has been donated on behalf of the event, and the rodeo board members submit fundraising ideas each September to support various community charities and organizations, particularly those focused on youth and healthcare – two of Daniel Dopps' passions.
The event is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, held in a park setting with grass, trees, and picnic seating around the arena, making it a unique venue compared to many traditional rodeo venues.
Attracting the Best in the Business
The timing of the Daniel Dopps Memorial Rodeo, coinciding with the Reno Rodeo, a major stop on the summer rodeo circuit, enables the event to consistently draw big names such as world champion Shad Mayfield and the Wright family of saddle bronc and bull riders.
The rodeo has previously been nominated for Best Small Rodeo in the Wilderness Circuit, solidifying its reputation within the rodeo community.
Dedicated Leadership and Volunteer Support
The rodeo is overseen by a passionate 8-person Board of Directors, divided into an Executive Committee and a larger Committee Board, within the 24 committee member team.
The Executive Committee handles high-level planning and strategy, while the sub-committees carry out essential rodeo functions.
Nearly all board members knew Daniel Dopps personally, with the event's founder, Ramona Dopps (Daniel's mother), serving on the board for the full 19 years since the rodeo's inception. Board members dedicate anywhere from 100 hours to every single day working to make the event a success.
The rodeo is supported by 75-100 local volunteers who contribute their time to ensure the event runs smoothly, handling tasks from ticketing and hospitality to security and arena clean-up. As Ramona Dopps states, "We could not do it without them. Period."
Sponsor Support
The nearly 40 sponsors providing financial support are crucial to the rodeo's success.
These sponsors understand that their involvement goes beyond funding – they become integral parts of the community effort to honor Daniel's legacy and promote Western heritage. Their contributions enable the rodeo to give back to the community through charitable donations and scholarships.
Charitable Focus
At the heart of the Daniel Dopps Memorial PRCA Rodeo is a deep commitment to honoring Daniel's memory through charitable giving.
Each year, proceeds are distributed to community charities and organizations that align with Daniel's passions, such as youth initiatives and healthcare.
To date, the rodeo has donated close to $60,000 in educational scholarships to graduating seniors, with preference given to those from Elmore and Owyhee Counties.
The event has also supported causes like the Mountain Home Parks & Recreation, Elmore County Jr. Rodeo Association, LLS fundraising efforts, St. Luke's Hospital Foundation, and various veterans' organizations.
Final Thoughts
As the 19th Annual Daniel Dopps Memorial PRCA Rodeo approaches, the excitement and anticipation continue to grow.
This beloved event stands as a testament to the transformative power of community, honoring the memory of Daniel Dopps while providing a unique, family-friendly rodeo experience for fans and contestants alike.
Through the tireless efforts of dedicated board members, volunteers, and sponsors, the rodeo has become a beacon of hope, a celebration of Western heritage, and a shining example of what can be achieved when passionate individuals come together for a common cause.
Richard Sutherland
RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.orgRichard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.