For more than 35 years, the Heartland Youth Rodeo Association (HYRA) has been dedicated to developing the next generation of rodeo athletes while preserving the traditions, values, and western heritage that make our sport unique. Founded in 1989, HYRA is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization committed to providing a safe, family-oriented environment where youth can grow as competitors, leaders, and individuals.

At HYRA, we believe rodeo is about more than winning buckles—it's about building character. Through competition, our members learn responsibility, sportsmanship, teamwork, perseverance, and respect, creating life skills that serve them well both inside and outside the arena.

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Who Can Join?

HYRA welcomes youth from kindergarten through 12th grade, with opportunities available for younger competitors in select divisions. Whether your child is entering the arena for the first time or preparing for junior high or high school rodeo competition, HYRA provides a supportive environment where every contestant has the opportunity to learn, improve, and succeed.

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Our Rodeo Season

Our season consists of eight rodeos held over four weekends, with competitions taking place on both Saturday and Sunday. Each day counts as a separate rodeo toward year-end standings.

To qualify for the HYRA Finals, contestants must:

• Compete in at least four rodeos during the season

• Participate in both days of the Finals

• Meet all membership and participation requirements

All rodeos are held at the Kingman Expo Center in Kingman, Kansas. Competition begins at 8:00 a.m. each Saturday and Sunday, and the facility offers horse stalls and RV hookups for the convenience of our rodeo families.

 

Building Champions for Life

Many HYRA members continue their rodeo careers in junior high, high school, college, and beyond. Over the years, our association has proudly produced numerous All-Around Champions, State Champions, National Qualifiers, and National Champions.

While we're proud of those accomplishments, we're even prouder of the young men and women who leave HYRA with confidence, integrity, strong work ethics, and lifelong friendships.

 

More Than a Rodeo Association

HYRA is powered by dedicated volunteers, supportive families, generous sponsors, and a passionate Board of Directors who are committed to creating an exceptional experience for every member. Together, we continue to enhance our events, recognize our contestants with outstanding year-end awards, and provide opportunities for young athletes to achieve their goals.

When you join Heartland Youth Rodeo Association, you're not just becoming a member of a rodeo organization—you become part of a community that encourages growth, celebrates achievement, and supports one another like family.

We invite you to saddle up, make lifelong memories, and become part of the Heartland Youth Rodeo Association family.