U.S. Senator Steve Daines, Senator Tim Sheehy, Congressman Ryan Zinke and Congressman Troy Downing today sent a letter to the Montana State Legislature expressing strong support for establishing American Rodeo as Montana’s official state sport in recognition of its cultural and historical significance for Montanans.
“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.
“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. 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. Placing rodeo alongside our state symbols, such as the bitterroot and grizzly bear, ensures our state carries on this legacy for generations to come.
“We hope that Montana’s legislature will join us in recognizing the cultural and historical significance that American Rodeo has for Montanans,” they wrote.
Download the full letter HERE.