This year marks the 70th annual Brush Rodeo. Every year, the Brush Rodeo brings excitement to the community throughout the Fourth of July holiday, and it's all thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Brush Rodeo committees and their partners.

These committees are made up of volunteers who work behind the scenes to make the rodeo is a success year after year. Executive board member Joanne Goslink shared some details about the efforts that go into organizing this event. From visiting sponsors to managing logistics, the committee members handle it all, making sure that the event runs smoothly and safely for everyone.

The Brush Rodeo relies on nearly 100 dedicated volunteers, including the Brush Chamber of Commerce, Brush Volunteer Fire Department and the City of Brush, who take on a variety of important tasks to ensure the event runs smoothly. The Executive Board is made up of volunteers Chuck Miller, Robert Farnham, Johnette Bondi, Kendra Ivie, Jerry Bellis, Jack Collins, Monte Torres, Joanne Gosselink and McKenna VonFeldt. Their jobs include arena management, concession stands, hospitality tent, sponsorship coordination, event coordination, ticket sales, and general assistance. This includes everything from setting up the arena to managing the website. The committee also works hard to bring in entertainment and events for all ages.

The Brush Rodeo Association recently announced its transition from the Colorado Pro Rodeo Association (CPRA) to the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) to elevate the level of competition and attract top-tier rodeo athletes to the event.

The PRCA is the largest rodeo organization in the world, headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado. With nearly 5,000 cowboys as members, the PRCA sanctions 650 multiple-event rodeos across 38 states and Canadian provinces. It was founded in 1936 by rodeo cowboys who wanted to create a professional organization to represent their interests. The organization also works to preserve the rich history and traditions of rodeo.

Over the years, the Brush Rodeo has evolved from a one-day event into a three-day celebration, thanks to their efforts. These dedicated individuals have brought many changes and improvements over the years to keep the event growing and successful.

The history of the Brush Rodeo dates back to 1925 when visionary businessmen Alonzo Petteys and J.R. Ryland purchased land and deeded it to the City of Brush. This property, now known as Memorial Park and the Morgan County Fairgrounds, hosted the first rodeo. In 1948, grandstands were added to accommodate the growing number of spectators.

In 1955, the Jaycees and other organizations formed the Brush Rodeo Association, adding events like the parade, barbecue, and fireworks to the rodeo festivities. In 1975, the association created the Watrous Pioneer Awards to honor individuals whose pioneering spirit has made Brush a welcoming spot for rodeo fans. Seventeen years later, the Rodeo Family of the Year Award was introduced to recognize families contributing to the rodeo tradition.