Empowering the Next Generation of Rodeo Champions
Honoring Tradition, Building Character, and Inspiring Excellence Among Young Riders
Empowering youth through the timeless spirit of rodeo, the Myrtis Dightman Sr. Youth Rodeo is dedicated to fostering leadership, discipline, and camaraderie among young riders. Our mission is to provide a safe and inclusive environment where aspiring cowboys and cowgirls can develop their skills, build character, and forge lifelong connections within the rodeo community. By honoring the legacy of Myrtis Dightman Sr., we aim to inspire the next generation of rodeo champions while promoting respect for tradition, animal welfare, and the values of hard work and perseverance.
Myrtis Dightman Sr., also known as “The Jackie Robinson of Rodeo” broke the color barrier to be the 1st Black Man to qualify for the National Finals Rodeo in 1964.
Admired cowboy and pioneer in bull riding, Myrtis Dightman Sr. was born on May 7, 1935, in Crockett, Texas. Dightman grew up on a ranch with his siblings. As he grew older, he left school to work on the ranch.In 1966, Dightman became the first black cowboy to qualify for the Professional Rodeo Association National Finals. He went on to qualify six more times, missing just once between 1966 and 1972. Dightman finished third in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association World Standings in 1967 and 1968. In 2001, Dightman was inducted into the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame and in 2003, he entered the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame.
In 1989, the Myrtis Dightman Youth Rodeo opened its door to continue to educate and promote the next generation.
IN THE NEWS: OUR JOURNEY AND IMPACT
Myrtis Dightman Hall of Fame Youth Rodeo Held in Crockett
“The Myrtis Dightman Hall of Fame Youth Rodeo was held Saturday, Sept. 3 at the Porth Ag Arena in Crocket. The rodeo was also the ...”
Rodeo Fans Should Grow Up Learning About This Legendary Black Rider
“A writer looks back on his 2018 cover story on Myrtis Dightman Sr., ‘the Jackie Robinson of Rodeo’, who broke the sport's color line.”
The Boss: Myrtis Dightman, Jr. on Preserving the Tradition of Black Cowboys in Texas
“One thing about rodeo and cowboys, it's just like a family,” said the younger Dightman, 61, the group's trail boss, and the very picture of a ....”
