WPRA: Championing Women in Professional Rodeo

The Women's Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) stands as a beacon of opportunity for female athletes in the world of professional rodeo. Since its inception in 1948, the WPRA has been instrumental in promoting and protecting women's interests in this exciting sport. Let's dive into the rich history, structure, and impact of this influential organization.

What does WPRA stand for?

WPRA stands for Women's Professional Rodeo Association. Originally founded as the Girls Rodeo Association (GRA) in 1948, the organization rebranded to its current name in 1981, reflecting its growth and professional status in the rodeo world.

History and Purpose of the WPRA

The WPRA's story began when 38 women met in San Angelo, Texas, with a vision to add femininity to rodeo and create opportunities for women in a male-dominated sport. From these humble beginnings, the WPRA has grown into the oldest women's sports organization in the United States, dedicated to advancing the sport of rodeo for women.

Membership and Structure

How many members are in the WPRA?

The WPRA has experienced significant growth since its founding:

• Current membership: Over 3,000 members

• Geographic reach: United States, Canada, and Australia

• Age requirement: Open to women 18 years and older, with exceptions for junior programs

• Organizational structure: Divided into 12 regional circuits, each represented by a circuit director on the WPRA Board

• Headquarters: Colorado Springs, Colorado

What events does the WPRA have?

The WPRA sanctions several rodeo events, providing diverse opportunities for female athletes:

1. Barrel Racing: The primary event, featured at most Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) rodeos

2. Breakaway Roping: Introduced at PRCA events in 2017 and rapidly growing in popularity

3. Team Roping: Featured in All Women's Division rodeos

4. Tie-Down Roping: Also part of the All Women's Division rodeos

Championships and Finals

The WPRA's top performers compete in prestigious championship events:

• National Finals Rodeo (NFR): The top 15 barrel racers qualify for this annual event held in December

• National Finals Breakaway Roping (NFBR): Established in 2020 to determine the world champion in breakaway roping

• WPRA World Finals: Held in Waco, Texas, featuring events from the All Women's Division

Key Events at the WPRA World Finals

The WPRA World Finals is a major event in the rodeo calendar, featuring:

• Barrel Racing: Including the Boot Barn Card Only event and Permit race

• Breakaway Roping: Serving as a qualifier for Fort Worth and RodeoHouston

• Team Roping: Both heading and heeling competitions

• Tie-Down Roping

• All-Around Competition: With a $2,500 all-around bonus (new in 2023)

• Junior Events

• Futurity/Derby Events

Growth and Achievements

The WPRA's evolution has been remarkable:

• Membership growth: From 74 original members to over 3,000 today

• Increased payouts: From $29,000 in 1948 to over $5 million in recent years

• Event expansion: From 60 events in 1948 to over 1,500 today

• Advocacy: Successfully pushed for equal prize money in barrel racing at PRCA rodeos

Famous WPRA Competitors

The WPRA has produced many legendary athletes, including:

• Sherry Cervi: Four-time World Champion Barrel Racer (1995, 1999, 2010, 2013)

• Charmayne James: 11-time World Champion Barrel Racer (1984-1993, 2002)

• Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi: Two-time World Champion (2007, 2009)

• Hailey Kinsel: Three-time World Champion (2018, 2019, 2020)

Spotlight on Sherry Cervi

Sherry Cervi's achievements in the WPRA are particularly noteworthy:

• Four WPRA World Barrel Racing Championships

• 19 National Finals Rodeo qualifications

• First barrel racer to surpass $2 million in career earnings (2010)

• Set a new NFR average record in 2013

• Inducted into the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame in 2018

Becoming a WPRA Member

To join the WPRA, prospective members should:

1. Choose a membership type (Barrel Racing, Roping, Junior Barrel, etc.)

2. Obtain and complete a membership application

3. Pay the membership fee (e.g., $325 for Permit membership, $395 for WPRA Card membership)

4. Submit required documentation, including a birth certificate for new members

5. Designate a circuit for point accumulation

6. New barrel racers must start with a permit and win $1,000 in WPRA competition before being eligible for a WPRA card

Eligibility Requirements

To compete in WPRA events, members must:

• Maintain a current WPRA membership in good standing

• Keep their WPRA account current with no unpaid balances

• Meet age requirements for their chosen membership type

• Adhere to the WPRA dress code during competitions

• Be ready to compete when called or risk disqualification

• Follow release rules if unable to compete in an entered event

Benefits of WPRA Membership

WPRA members enjoy several advantages:

• Access to WPRA-sanctioned competitions

• Subscription to "Women's Pro Rodeo News" (WPRN), the official WPRA publication

• Accident insurance coverage for competing and traveling to WPRA events

• Voting rights in WPRA elections (for card holders)

• Access to the WPRA/PRCA rodeo entry system

• Opportunity to participate in the Pro Elite Sire Incentive Program

The Women's Pro Rodeo News Subscription

As part of their membership, WPRA members receive:

• Regular issues of the WPRN magazine

• Content including news updates, competitor profiles, rodeo results, and industry trends

• Digital access to current and past issues through the WPRA website

The Future of Women's Professional Rodeo

As the WPRA continues to evolve, it remains committed to providing opportunities for women in professional rodeo. With growing participation, increasing prize money, and expanding event offerings, the future looks bright for women in this exciting sport.

Conclusion

The Women's Professional Rodeo Association has come a long way since its founding in 1948, transforming from a small group of determined women into a professional organization that sanctions over 1,500 events annually. By supporting female athletes and promoting excellence in competition, the WPRA ensures that women's rodeo will continue to thrive and inspire future generations of cowgirls.

Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.