Colorado Gay Rodeo Association set to host 41st Rocky Mountain Regional

DENVER (KDVR) — Did you know Colorado is the host of the longest-running gay rodeo event in the United States? The Rocky Mountain Regional happens every year right here in Denver and supports several local charities.

The Colorado Gay Rodeo Association has been around for more than 40 years and will host the 41 ^st Rocky Mountain Regional Rodeo later this summer.

Participants say it’s not just about the horses and the lassos, it’s about creating a better community.

“I don’t think many people know that we’ve had a rodeo for 41 years. A gay rodeo, in fact, for 41 years, and I think that’s what makes Colorado so special,” said Jordan Roberts with the Colorado Gay Rodeo Association.

While some may have never heard of a gay rodeo, they aren’t much different from your traditional one.

Classic sports like bull riding are mixed in with a few unique events. Ever wanted to see a drag queen in the arena? This is the place for you.

“What may not be accepted as the norm is accepted here at our rodeo,” said Christina Miner, who sports the title of Ms. International Gay Rodeo 2024.

That welcoming community is what attracted Miner to the sport.

“We all love rodeos, you know?” she said. “And horses.”

The Rocky Mountain Regional welcomes contestants from all across the country, raising money that the Colorado Gay Rodeo Association donates to charities around the state. Last year, it raised $12,000.

“This year we’re focusing on six figures, that’s our big goal,” said Roberts.

For Trixxie Deluxxe, the grand marshal of this year’s event, it isn’t their first rodeo.

“I’ve been a part of the rodeo system since 2012,” Deluxxe said.

They say that sense of unexpectedness is what makes the event so special.

“Rodeos just really bring together a bunch of people that you would never see, a huge group of people that you would never see at a gay pride or just brings different groups and organizations together that you may not think would actually come together to make up a stronger community,” Deluxxe said.

A stronger community that welcomes even those brand new to the rodeo.

“Even if you’ve never come to a gay rodeo before, or a rodeo for that matter, come on out, give us a try and we’d love to have you,” said Roberts.

The Rocky Mountain Regional is a three-day event, lasting from July 12 to 14. Tickets are on sale now.

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