OFFICIAL MEMBERSHIP & CONTESTANT APPLICATION OF THE PRCA

Learn from rodeo’s best in the PRCA

Many young rodeo cowboys feel they aren’t quite ready for professional competition, that they should compete only regionally until they know they are good enough to “head down the road” with professionals. Deciding to take the plunge is not an easy step. Perhaps you fall into this category. If so, consider the fact that the first years of a professional athlete’s career are usually the most important. That’s when habits — good and bad — are formed. When you begin your rodeo career in the PRCA, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from the top contestants in the sport. Whether they make their living in the rodeo arena or compete only on weekends at rodeos close to home, these cowboys must make wise decisions about how they enter and compete if they are going to be successful. ‘Permit’ members compete equally with other contestants

Anyone of legal age in his home state can apply for a PRCA permit, which allows him to enter many of the Association’s rodeos. Rodeos that accept permit entries treat permit-holders just as they would any other contestant. Because they draw so many full-time contestants, however, some large rodeos cannot accept entries from permit holders. All PRCA cowboys, including permit holders, enter rodeos through PROCOM, the Association’s computerized central entry system in Colorado Springs, Colo. After entries for a particular rodeo have closed, the computer randomly forms a preference list that ensures each contestant an equal chance of competing on his preferred day. The computer also assigns roughstock, eliminating any chance of preferential treatment. A cowboy can also enter as a “buddy” of up to three other cowboys. Under the buddy system, as many as four cowboys may enter as a group and request to compete on the same day, allowing them to share rides and traveling expenses. Another benefit of PRCA membership is the Association’s comprehensive group health insurance coverage, included in the annual permit and membership fees. Many cowboys injured in competition have discovered the importance of the PRCA’s strong insurance program.

PRCA means fair judging...

The PRCA’s Wrangler Pro Officials Program was designed to ensure fair and equal treatment of all contestants. These dedicated officials are true professionals and must meet strict requirements to become rodeo judges. If you make the winning ride or run, you’ll get the winner’s paycheck — what could be more fair than that? PRCA officials also enforce the Association’s rules dealing with the humane treatment of livestock, always an important aspect in professional rodeo.

...and bigger purses

If you make the winning ride at a rodeo, you want the resulting paycheck to make your trip worthwhile. Many top PRCA contestants earn more than $100,000 in a year. More than 50 PRCA rodeos offer prize money exceeding $100,000, and hundreds of rodeos offer more than $1,500 per event in added money. But, with about 750 rodeos sanctioned, the PRCA also offers plenty of smaller rodeos as well. That means that, as your ability increases, so does your earning potential. Part-time cowboys can gain national recognition.

APPLICATIONS

For PRCA applications, Adobe Reader version 5 or higher is needed. All forms require a signature and must be sent by mail or fax (719-548-4868) to the PRCA Office, do not send electronically. E-mail attachments will not be accepted.

Download Adobe Acrobat Reader, free software, to view and print these PDF files.

2010 PRCA Membership Application Form - Signature required. $500.00 USD

2010 PRCA Membership Renewal Form - Annual membership renewal application for PRCA members. Signature required.

2010 PRCA Permit application - First phase in becoming a member of the PRCA. Signature and notarization required.* Applicants must be 18, or the age of majority in the state of which they are a citizen. $300.00 USD

Voluntary Insurance Program for Members and their Families - Quality insurance options for our members and their families. Please click here to go to the website or click here to download the program flyer.