Bob Tallman—Announcer
During a career that has spanned more than three decades, Bob Tallman has announced nearly 15,000 rodeo performances in the United States, Mexico, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. His gravel-laced baritone and his story-telling prowess are legendary in ProRodeo. In recent years Tallman has become the voice of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo: he’s announced the Wrangler NFR a record 17 times, including a record nine straight.
Born Oct. 25, 1947, in Winnemucca, Nev., Tallman tried his hand as a rodeo competitor, but he quickly discovered his forte was behind a microphone, as evidenced by his being named PRCA Announcer of the Year in 1982, 1987, 1997 and 1999-2001.
Tallman’s philosophy is simple, yet effective. “Tell them the truth,” he said. “Say what you are seeing because the fans are seeing the same thing that you are. And if you can’t be positive, don’t say anything.”
Doug Mathis—Announcer
Doug Mathis has been a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association since 1995 and is regarded as one of the top rodeo announcers in the country. The multi-talented Mathis has not only announced rodeos, but has also been seen in numerous national fashion print campaigns, acted in television commercials, and even appeared in the film “Pure Country” with country music legend George Strait.
Mathis has been behind the mic since he sustained a career ending injury as a bull rider. He has announced rodeos in over 23 states and averages 50,000 miles a year on the road. When he’s not announcing rodeos, Mathis can be found on his family ranch in Cleburne, Texas.
Barrel Man—Matt Merritt
Known for his impeccable humor and impressive dancing skills, Matt Merritt is a rodeo favorite for fans of all ages. This globetrotter has performed in 48 states, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia! No matter where he travels to, Merritt finds ways to incorporate local flavor to cater each show to his audience.
Matt’s been a professional rodeo clown for 20 years. It’s his job to do the comedy and entertain the crowd when there are gaps in the show and during commercial breaks. Besides being an entertainer, Matt also acts as barrel man, meaning that during the bull riding event, he gets inside a padded barrel and distracts the angry bull long enough to for the cowboys to make their escape.
Specialty Act—Flying Arena Stars
Sisters Shyla, Layna and Clara Navarre are the Flying Arena Stars, professional entertainers that are following the footsteps of their deeply rooted family tradition. The girls’ parents, Corey and Melissa Navarre, make their home in Weatherford, OK, and Melissa passes the art of trick riding down to her girls as a third generation of performers.
The young trio found themselves in Las Vegas at the WNFR in 2023 performing as one of the selected Specialty Acts. Being chosen to work together at the NFR is the highlight of the girls’ young career thus far—we can’t wait to watch them add the NFR Open to the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo to their accolades in July!
Beau Schueth—Bullfighter
Hailing from Nebraska, Beau Schueth’s love for rodeo was ignited at a young age as he watched the Clearwater Rodeo from the stands. While many young rodeo fans dream of roping or riding, Beau chose a different path—one of bravery and selflessness—as a bullfighter.
Since joining the PRCA in 2018, Beau has fought his way to the top with grit, determination and dedication. Today, he’s known across the circuit for his quick feet, fearless attitude, and unwavering commitment to keeping riders safe.
Tyler Dahl—Bullfighter
We’re pleased to welcome Tyler Dahl to the NFR Open at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo! Hailing from Oklahoma, Tyler walked onto his college rodeo team as a bullfighter at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, and the rest is history. He’s been fighting bulls professionally for over a decade, joining the PRCA in 2017.
Dahl’s many accolades include 2015 Creek County Fair Freestyle Bullfights Champion, 2018 Mustache Bash Protection Champion, 2020 Fort Worth Bull Sale Protection Champion, and a 2021 Prairie Circuit Finals appearance.
Pikes Peak Range Rider Pivots and Rangerettes
Our fans love the precision riding skills of the Pikes Peak Range Rider Pivots and Pikes Peak Rangerettes at the beginning of every performance at the NFR Open at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo.
The Rangerettes were organized in 1957 by the Pikes Peak Range Riders to promote horsemanship, sportsmanship, responsibility and precision riding for young women of the Pikes Peak Region, and to promote the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. Functions and activities are held to encourage unity, self-improvement and enjoyment of horse-related activities. Please follow them on Facebook to learn more.
The Animals in Rodeo
The bucking bulls and horses at Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo are some of the best athletes in the sport. These remarkable animals are owned by stock contractors who make sure the livestock is healthy, well-fed, and fit to perform. The care and treatment of these valuable animals is the top priority for these contractors. Pikes Peak or Bust shares in the responsibility of the care of these animals on-site at Norris Penrose Event Center by having professionally trained judges for each performance, and veterinary staff available throughout the event for any animal care needs.