Norco Mounted Posse PRCA Rodeo: Where Tradition Meets Championship Competition
In the heart of "Horsetown USA," the thundering hooves and roaring crowds of the Norco Mounted Posse PRCA Rodeo return to the George Ingalls Equestrian Event Center from August 22-24, 2025. This Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association sanctioned event has become a cornerstone of Norco's western heritage, drawing top competitors from across the nation to vie for a share of the impressive $49,500 purse.
A California Circuit Showcase
As an official stop on the PRCA's California Circuit, the Norco Mounted Posse Rodeo offers competitors crucial points toward circuit finals qualifications and year-end standings. For three action-packed days, the arena transforms into a battleground where cowboys and cowgirls test their mettle against some of the finest animal athletes in the sport.
"This rodeo has grown into one of the premier events on the California Circuit," notes a PRCA representative. "The combination of top-tier stock contractors, excellent ground conditions, and the passionate Norco crowd creates an atmosphere that brings out the best in our competitors."
Seven Events, Countless Thrills
Spectators will witness all seven of the PRCA's classic events, each showcasing different aspects of the skills required in traditional ranch work:
Bareback Riding - Perhaps rodeo's most physically demanding event, bareback riders grip a simple handhold while their mount explodes from the chute. Points are awarded for both the horse's performance and the rider's control and spurring technique.
Steer Wrestling - Also known as "bulldogging," this event features cowboys leaping from horseback onto a running steer, using strength and leverage to bring the animal to the ground. The fastest time wins, with top competitors completing the task in under four seconds.
Team Roping - The only true team event in rodeo pairs a header (who ropes the steer's horns) with a heeler (who ropes the hind legs). Precision timing between partners is essential, as the clock stops only when both ropers have done their job and the rope is taut.
Saddle Bronc Riding - Considered rodeo's classic event, saddle bronc riding evolved directly from ranch work. Riders must maintain perfect form while spurring in rhythm with their bucking horse's movements for eight seconds.
Tie-Down Roping - A test of speed and accuracy, tie-down ropers must catch a calf with a loop, dismount, run to the animal, and tie any three legs together while their horse keeps the rope taut.
Barrel Racing - In this Women's Professional Rodeo Association event, female competitors and their horses navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. With penalties for knocked-over barrels, the event demands both speed and precision.
Bull Riding - The rodeo's grand finale features cowboys attempting to ride 2,000-pound bulls for eight seconds with only a flat braided rope for support. Often called "the most dangerous eight seconds in sports," bull riding consistently brings crowds to their feet.
Beyond the Competition
While championship rodeo action forms the core of the weekend, the Norco Mounted Posse PRCA Rodeo delivers a complete western experience. Specialty acts between competitions keep the energy high, with talented rodeo clowns providing both comedy and crucial protection for fallen riders.
The grand entry before each performance showcases the pageantry of rodeo, with flag bearers, rodeo royalty, and mounted participants parading into the arena to patriotic music. This stirring tradition connects today's competitors with generations of rodeo heritage.
Vendors throughout the venue offer western wear, handcrafted items, and memorabilia, while concession stands serve up rodeo favorites from barbecue to funnel cakes. For families, a dedicated kids' zone provides activities for younger buckaroos, ensuring the event creates lasting memories for all ages.
The Venue: George Ingalls Equestrian Event Center
Named for a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, the George Ingalls Equestrian Event Center provides an ideal setting for championship rodeo. Located in the heart of Norco at 3737 Crestview Drive, the facility features excellent sightlines from all seating areas, ensuring spectators won't miss a moment of the action.
The covered grandstand offers protection from the elements, while box seating provides premium viewing for those seeking an upgraded experience. Ample parking surrounds the facility, though early arrival is recommended for prime spots.
Modern amenities including clean restrooms and accessible seating make the venue comfortable for all attendees, while the arena itself is maintained to PRCA standards for optimal competition conditions.
Schedule of Events
The 2025 Norco Mounted Posse PRCA Rodeo kicks off Friday, August 22nd with a 7:00 PM performance. Saturday features both afternoon and evening performances at 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM respectively, while Sunday concludes the weekend with a 1:00 PM show.
Gates open two hours before each performance, allowing plenty of time to explore vendor booths, enjoy pre-rodeo entertainment, and find the perfect seat. For the most dedicated rodeo fans, "slack" competitions—overflow events not included in the main performances—typically occur during morning hours and are often free to attend.
Securing Your Tickets
Tickets for this popular event go on sale June 22, 2025, approximately two months before the rodeo. Experience has shown that premium seating options sell quickly, particularly for Saturday night's traditionally sold-out performance.
Several ticket options will be available to accommodate different preferences and budgets:
General Admission provides access to the grandstand seating on a first-come, first-served basis. These tickets offer flexibility and value for individuals and families.
Reserved Seating guarantees specific seats in prime viewing areas, eliminating the need to arrive early to claim spots.
Box Seats deliver a premium experience with dedicated seating closer to the action, often with enhanced services and amenities.
Special Rates will be available for children, seniors, military personnel, and first responders, reflecting the rodeo's commitment to community accessibility.
When tickets become available, they can be purchased directly through this website with various payment methods accepted. Attendees will have options for mobile delivery, print-at-home convenience, or will-call pickup at the venue.
For those planning to attend multiple performances, multi-day packages will offer savings compared to individual tickets. Given the event's popularity, early purchase is strongly recommended, particularly for weekend performances.
Community Impact and Heritage
The Norco Mounted Posse, founded in 1964, has deep roots in the community. As the rodeo's organizing body, this volunteer sheriff's mounted unit combines community service with preservation of western heritage. Proceeds from the rodeo support various local charities and youth programs, creating a lasting impact beyond the three-day event.
"This rodeo represents the heart of Norco," explains a Mounted Posse representative. "It's where our community comes together to celebrate our western lifestyle while supporting causes that strengthen our future."
The economic impact extends throughout "Horsetown USA," with local businesses welcoming visitors from across Southern California and beyond. Hotels, restaurants, and shops see increased activity during rodeo weekend, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.
A Tradition of Excellence
Now in its decades-long tradition, the Norco Mounted Posse PRCA Rodeo has evolved from humble beginnings to become a highlight of the California rodeo calendar. What began as a small community event has grown into a significant stop for professional competitors while maintaining its authentic western character.
The rodeo's growth parallels the PRCA's own evolution from its 1936 founding as the Cowboys' Turtle Association to today's premier rodeo sanctioning body. Through changing times, both organizations have preserved traditional values while embracing innovations that enhance the competitor and spectator experience.
Join the Tradition
Whether you're a lifelong rodeo enthusiast or experiencing your first bucking bronc, the Norco Mounted Posse PRCA Rodeo promises an unforgettable weekend of western action. From the opening notes of the national anthem to the final bull ride, this celebration of skill, courage, and western heritage embodies the spirit that built the American West.
Mark your calendar for August 22-24, 2025, and prepare to witness championship rodeo in the heart of Horsetown USA. When tickets become available on June 22, secure yours promptly to guarantee your place at one of Southern California's premier western events.
The dust will fly, champions will emerge, and traditions will continue at the Norco Mounted Posse PRCA Rodeo—where the spirit of the West rides on.