March 11, 2020 — Houston, Texas — In a statement from Rodeo Houston provided by the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association, Rodeo Houston confirmed the cancellation of the event due to coronavirus concerns.
Letter to Athletes from Rodeo Houston
Dear Rodeo Athletes:
In the interest of public health, the City of Houston and the Houston Health Department have ordered the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ to close. The Rodeo will respectfully and dutifully comply with the City’s order.
The Rodeo is deeply saddened; however, the safety and well-being of our guests and our community is our top priority. Out of precaution, the City has decided that this is the best course of action for our community.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has been a fabric of this community since 1932. Having to close early is extremely difficult as guests, volunteers, exhibitors, rodeo athletes and entertainers look forward to the 20 days of the Rodeo each year.
We look forward to the 2021 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to continue to promote agriculture, education, entertainment and Western heritage. We will provide additional information as it becomes available. Updates will be posted at rodeohouston.com/2020.
Thus, beginning today, we will not have any further RODEOHOUSTON competition for 2020.
Again, we are incredibly saddened by this change. We are aware of the tremendous impact this cancellation places on each of you. Thank you all for your understanding as we follow the City’s order.
Catherine H. Schultz
Director – Sports and Event Presentations
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™
Barrel Horse News reached out to the WPRA on March 11 to confirm the allegations as well as inquire about how the cancellation of the rodeo in the midst of the event will affect the WPRA standings and its athletes. According to the WPRA, the next steps of action will be addressed when their decision has been made.
* This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available
* For more information, visit wpra.com
