Central Oklahoma is set to become a premier destination for youth rodeo competitors and their families after a partnership between the cities of Guthrie and Edmond helped secure two of the nation’s largest youth rodeo championships for the Lazy E Arena.
The National Junior High Finals Rodeo will soon begin a 10-year run at the Guthrie-area venue June 18-27, while the National High School Finals Rodeo will follow with its own 10-year agreement beginning in 2030.
The long-term commitment is expected to bring a major economic boost to Guthrie, Edmond and surrounding communities. According to research from the University of Nebraska and Grotta Marketing Research LLC, the two events are projected to generate 179,372 visitor days and approximately $27.3 million in annual economic output.
For Guthrie leaders, the investment is expected to pay dividends through increased tourism and spending at local businesses.
“These two events are a huge win for Lazy E and a huge win for the hospitality industry in Guthrie,” City Manager Eddie Faulkner said. “We’ll see visitors from around the country spending money in our hotels, restaurants and shops, and we’re grateful for our partnership with the Lazy E and with these new events. We extend our thanks to our City Council for funding this investment in our tourism industry.”
The successful bid was supported by multiple local and state partners. Edmond designated $45,000 in 2022 to support recruitment efforts, while Guthrie committed $10,000 annually for each contracted event.
State Rep. Collin Duel said the agreement places Oklahoma on a larger national stage while showcasing what the state has to offer.
“This is not only great news for the cities of Guthrie and Edmond,” Duel said, “but it elevates Oklahoma on yet another national platform. Oklahoma already consistently ranks as one of the best places to live because of our low cost of living, our growing job market and many other factors. These events will bring more visitors to our state to enjoy our hospitality and to see all that we have to offer.”
Since opening in 1984, the Lazy E Arena has become one of the most recognized western sports venues in North America. The facility has hosted major events such as the National Finals Steer Roping, International Finals Rodeo, Cinch Timed Event Championship and the Bob Feist Invitational Team Roping. It also played a role in the early growth of professional bull riding through the Lazy E Bullnanza.
Recent improvements to the facility include the 30,000-square-foot Equinety Center, new stall barns, a modern bathhouse and the Morton Production Office, scheduled to open this year. Those upgrades helped strengthen the arena’s bid to host the prestigious national championships.
Sen. Chuck Hall said the benefits of the agreement will be felt throughout the state.
“This is a big deal for Guthrie, Edmond and the state as a whole because it will bring millions of dollars in new economic activity to Oklahoma,” Hall said. “Competitors and their families will stay in local hotels, dine at nearby restaurants and support our small businesses. I can’t wait for these visitors to see what makes Oklahoma such a great state.”
The agreement solidifies Central Oklahoma’s growing reputation as the “Youth Rodeo Capital of the World” and ensures thousands of visitors will experience the area each summer for years to come.
Photo by Kyle Jones
Photo by Kyle Jones