Black Cowboys Take Center Stage: 8 Seconds Rodeo Expands for Its Biggest Year Yet With A Stop In Philadelphia!
PHILADELPHIA -- The 8 Seconds Rodeo returns for its third and most electrifying year, expanding to two major cities and celebrating today's Black cowboys on a national stage. It’s next stop is October 11th in Philadelphia, PA (Liacouras Center), following it’s wild success on June 15th in Portland, OR (Veterans Memorial Coliseum). This groundbreaking rodeo will bring together thousands of fans for a night of high-stakes competition, Black culture, and world-class entertainment.
This year’s rodeo will feature an intense lineup of events, including Bull Riding, Bareback Bronco Riding, Barrel Racing, and Mutton Bustin’, with top Black rodeo athletes from around the country competing for $60,000 in prize money. Hosted by comedienne X Mayo, the 8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo delivers more than just action—it’s a powerful, physically and spiritually moving experience that showcases the grit, talent, and heritage of Black rodeo athletes. Tickets are on sale now.
"This rodeo is about celebrating Black excellence in the Western world and providing a platform for future generations of Black rodeo athletes to thrive," says Ivan McClellan, founder of the 8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo. "With this expansion, we’re bringing the culture and excitement to new audiences, proving that Black cowboys belong on the national stage."
Highlights of the 2025 8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo:
Two National Events – June 15th in Portland and October 11th in Philadelphia, each with 8,000 fans in attendance.
Elite Rodeo Competition – Featuring Bull Riding, Bareback Bronco Riding, Barrel Racing, and Mutton Bustin' with a $60,000 purse.
Host X Mayo – The celebrated actress and comedian will keep the energy high and the crowd rolling in the aisles.
Athlete Development – 8 Seconds Rodeo is committed to the future of Black rodeo, hosting bull riding and bareback riding clinics in Oregon to help young rodeo athletes improve their skills and advance their careers with no-cost professional instruction
Athletes to Watch:
The Bluebird Riders (Jaelah & Jiyah) – At just 11 and 13 years old, this dynamic barrel racing duo has taken the rodeo world by storm, winning against much older riders—including the 2024 8 Seconds Rodeo in Portland. The sisters, who both aspire to be veterinarians, represent the next generation of Black cowgirls breaking barriers.
Tank Adams – The ultimate rodeo wild card. This Oklahoma-born cowboy brings a fearless, hard-hitting approach to bull riding, carrying the weight of his family’s legacy with every ride. Tank drives trucks, fights MMA, and is a crowd favorite of the 8 Seconds Rodeo.
Au'vion Horton (A.V.) – Hailing from Hope, Arkansas, A.V. is a rising bull riding star with ambitions to make it to the National Finals Rodeo. Raised by his mom, grandmother, and aunt, he found his path in rodeo as a way to stay focused and out of trouble, now dedicating himself to perfecting his craft.
2025 8 Seconds Rodeo Partnerships:
Crown Royal’s "That Deserves a Crown" Award – Returning as the official whisky of 8 Seconds Rodeo, Crown Royal will present a $10,000 award to an organization supporting and promoting Black cowboys at each event. Rooted in its ethos of generosity, Crown Royal is committed to uplifting and celebrating those who keep the rich heritage and traditions of the Black rodeo circuit thriving.
Tecovas – A Legacy of Western Authenticity - Austin-based Tecovas, a long-time supporter of the 8 Seconds Rodeo, returns in 2025 to continue its commitment to the culture. “Tecovas has been a fan of McClellan’s work for years, and we’ve been proud to feature his photography in our campaigns,” said Robyn Wedgeworth. Senior Director of PR + Partnerships at Tecovas. “Sponsoring the 8 Seconds Rodeo was a natural fit for us because this event is expanding the western audience in a meaningful way. Rodeo is built on deep traditions, and this event is bringing new energy and attention to the sport. We’re excited to support this moment and help introduce more people to the spirit and heritage of the western lifestyle.”
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