The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, Colorado Springs, Colorado, is adding a 13th circuit, starting with the 2019 rodeo season.
The PRCA and Canadian Professional Rodeo Association have partnered to create the Maple Leaf Circuit, which will join the previously sanctioned 12 PRCA circuits.
“The creation of the Maple Leaf Circuit is a significant step toward our goal of unifying the sport of professional rodeo, while increasing the opportunities for our members,” said PRCA CEO George Taylor. “The longstanding relationship between the PRCA and the CPRA is a legacy that has created mutual benefits in the past, and the shared vision for the Maple Leaf Circuit will provide even more opportunities for our combined membership into the future.”
Effective Oct. 1, 2018, rodeo competitors who are members of both the PRCA and CPRA will be able to enter a select amount of CPRA rodeos throughout the 2019 rodeo season and earn Maple Leaf Circuit points.
CPRA General Manager Jeff Robson sees the new agreement as an opportunity to strengthen Canadian rodeo in several key areas.
“Both of our organizations are committed to attracting new members and creating avenues for new and existing members to make more money. This agreement solidifies the role of the CPRA and PRCA as industry leaders in and out of the arena,” Robson said. “Expanding our partnership fits very well with our combined vision. Working alongside the PRCA to allow CPRA members to qualify for the RAM National Circuit Finals south of the 49th parallel is a vital element in growing our sport. It is an exciting time as we continue to collaborate on initiatives that will benefit our members.”
The champions of the Maple Leaf Circuit—two in each rodeo event—will qualify for the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo, in Kissimmee, Florida, starting in April 2020.
“We are excited to see the addition of the Maple Leaf Circuit to the circuit system,” said Beth Knight, Osceola County, Florida, deputy manager. “We believe that they will draw additional fans, especially given the number of Canadians that call Central Florida their winter home. This agreement will provide unique marketing opportunities and will drive a new fan base to our destination.”
