8 Seconds Rodeo Expands in 2025, Showcasing Black Cowboy Culture on a National Stage

PORTLAND, Ore. – The 8 Seconds Rodeo is set to return for its third and most electrifying year, expanding to two major cities and continuing its mission of celebrating Black cowboys and cowgirls on a national stage. The highly anticipated rodeo will take place on June 15th in Portland, Oregon, at Veterans Memorial Coliseum, and on October 11th in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at the Liacouras Center. Each event is expected to draw 8,000 fans for an unforgettable night of high-stakes competition, culture, and entertainment.

Founded by photojournalist Ivan McClellan, the 8 Seconds Rodeo has quickly become a cultural movement that merges Western heritage with Black excellence. The event features an intense lineup of rodeo competitions, including Bull Riding, Bareback Bronco Riding, Barrel Racing, and Mutton Bustin’. Top Black rodeo athletes from across the country will compete for a prize pool of $60,000.

Hosting this year’s event is actress and comedian X Mayo, who will keep the energy high and the crowd entertained throughout the evening. Beyond the competition, the rodeo is committed to fostering the next generation of Black rodeo athletes. Bull riding and bareback riding clinics will be held in Oregon, providing young riders with no-cost professional instruction to develop their skills and advance their careers.

Athletes to Watch

• The Bluebird Riders (Jaelah & Jiyah) – This dynamic sister duo, aged 11 and 13, has already made waves in the rodeo world. After triumphing in the 2024 8 Seconds Rodeo in Portland, they continue to set new benchmarks in barrel racing.
• Tank Adams – Hailing from Oklahoma, Adams is a fearless bull rider known for his hard-hitting approach and deep family rodeo legacy. Outside of rodeo, he is also involved in trucking and MMA fighting.
• Au’vion Horton (A.V.) – A rising bull riding star from Hope, Arkansas, Horton has dedicated himself to mastering the sport as a way to stay focused and make a name for himself in the rodeo world.

Strong Partnerships Drive Growth

The 8 Seconds Rodeo continues to gain support from major sponsors, strengthening its impact on the rodeo community:

• Crown Royal’s “That Deserves a Crown” Award – Returning as the official whisky sponsor, Crown Royal will present a $10,000 award at each event to organizations that support Black cowboys and promote the sport’s rich traditions.
• Tecovas – The Austin-based Western footwear and apparel brand remains a strong supporter of the event. “Rodeo is built on deep traditions, and this event is bringing new energy and attention to the sport,” said Robyn Wedgeworth, Senior Director of PR + Partnerships at Tecovas.

Tickets and More Information

Fans can follow @eightsecs on Instagram and sign up for early access to tickets at 8secondsrodeo.com. With its expansion to new cities, the 8 Seconds Rodeo continues to provide a platform for Black cowboys and cowgirls, showcasing their skills and preserving the rich legacy of Black Western culture.

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