Stonyford Breakaway Roping: A California Tradition Returns to Brother Moore Arena

The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association proudly presents the 2025 Stonyford Breakaway Roping, a showcase of precision, speed, and western heritage in the heart of California's rodeo country.

Where Tradition Meets Competition

When the morning sun rises over the rolling hills of Colusa County on May 2, 2025, it will illuminate more than just the picturesque landscape of Northern California. It will shine down on Brother Moore Arena in Stonyford, where the crack of ropes and the thunder of hooves will signal the return of one of the California Circuit's most anticipated breakaway roping events.

The 2025 Stonyford Breakaway Roping promises two days of elite competition on May 2-3, bringing together the finest breakaway ropers from across the West Coast and beyond. This PRCA-sanctioned event carries forward the rich traditions of western sports while showcasing one of rodeo's fastest-growing disciplines.

A Celebration of Skill and Precision

For those new to the sport, breakaway roping represents one of rodeo's most technical events, combining horsemanship, timing, and roping precision into seconds of heart-pounding action. Competitors burst from the box aboard finely-tuned quarter horses, swinging loops overhead as they chase down swift calves released from the chute. The goal? To deliver a perfect throw, catch the calf, and have the rope "break away" from the saddle horn when the calf hits the end of the line.

What makes breakaway roping particularly thrilling for spectators is its lightning-fast pace. The best runs often clock in at just two to three seconds, requiring absolute precision from both rider and horse. Blink, and you might miss the winning run.

With a $3,000 payout on the line, the Stonyford event will attract top talent from throughout the California Circuit and beyond. While the competitor list is still developing, fans can expect to see both seasoned champions and rising stars testing their skills against the clock and each other.

More Than Just Competition

While the breakaway roping takes center stage, the Stonyford event delivers a complete western experience for attendees of all ages. The atmosphere at Brother Moore Arena captures the essence of rodeo culture – a blend of competitive sport, community gathering, and celebration of western heritage.

Throughout the two-day event, the arena grounds will transform into a hub of activity. Vendors will line the concourse offering everything from authentic western wear to handcrafted leather goods. The aroma of barbecue and traditional fair favorites will waft through the air as food vendors serve up hearty meals and quick bites to fuel spectators through the day's events.

Families with young children will find plenty to enjoy beyond the main competition. Kids' activities typically include face painting, mechanical bull rides scaled for younger cowboys and cowgirls, and interactive educational stations where children can learn about western heritage and livestock.

Between competitive rounds, attendees can expect entertainment that celebrates western culture, from demonstrations of traditional skills to musical interludes that keep the energy high throughout the day.

The Heart of California Rodeo Country

Stonyford itself adds to the authentic experience. This small community in Colusa County embodies the spirit of western tradition, with a population that embraces and preserves rodeo culture year-round. The Brother Moore Arena serves as a fitting venue, designed specifically to showcase events like breakaway roping with excellent sightlines that allow spectators to catch every moment of the action.

The California Circuit holds a special place in PRCA competition, known for producing world-class talent that regularly advances to the National Finals. The Stonyford event provides crucial opportunities for competitors to earn points toward circuit standings and qualify for championship events.

Planning Your Visit

Tickets and Seating

Tickets for the 2025 Stonyford Breakaway Roping will go on sale approximately two months before the event, around March 2, 2025. Rodeo enthusiasts are encouraged to mark their calendars, as popular seating sections tend to fill quickly for this beloved event.

Attendees will have several ticket options to choose from, including general admission and reserved seating. Family packages will be available, making this an affordable outing for groups of all sizes. Senior and military discounts will be honored, continuing the rodeo tradition of recognizing service and community.

Tickets will be available for purchase directly through this website when sales open. For those who prefer traditional methods, select local retailers throughout Colusa County will also carry tickets closer to the event date. Will-call pickup will be available at the arena on event days for those who purchase in advance.

Given the event's popularity and limited seating capacity at Brother Moore Arena, advance purchase is highly recommended to secure preferred seating locations.

Getting There

Brother Moore Arena is nestled in the heart of Stonyford, California, approximately 100 miles northwest of Sacramento. The venue is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site for a nominal fee. Carpooling is encouraged, both to reduce environmental impact and to ensure parking availability for all attendees.

For those traveling from outside the immediate area, several charming accommodations can be found within a short drive of the arena. From family-owned motels to rustic bed and breakfasts, the surrounding communities offer lodging options that complement the western experience.

What to Bring

May in Northern California typically brings pleasant temperatures, with warm days and cooler evenings. Layered clothing is recommended, as is sun protection for the daytime events. The arena offers both covered and uncovered seating, so preparing for variable conditions ensures maximum comfort throughout your visit.

Comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the arena grounds. Many attendees choose to embrace western style with boots and hats, though this is certainly not required to enjoy the events.

Small cushions or seat pads can enhance comfort during longer stretches of viewing, particularly in general admission sections with bench seating.

Accessibility

Brother Moore Arena is committed to providing an accessible experience for all rodeo fans. Designated accessible parking spaces are available close to the main entrance, and the venue features accessible seating areas with excellent views of the competition. Service animals are welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines, though pet owners should note that non-service animals are not permitted within the arena for safety reasons.

Community and Heritage

What truly sets the Stonyford Breakaway Roping apart is its connection to the broader rodeo community. This event represents more than just competition—it's a gathering place where generations of rodeo families come together to celebrate shared traditions and values.

Many of today's competitors grew up watching their parents and grandparents compete in similar events, creating a living legacy that connects past to present. The skills displayed in the arena have been refined over decades, passed down through families and formalized through rigorous training.

For first-time attendees, the Stonyford event offers a perfect introduction to rodeo culture. The relatively intimate setting of Brother Moore Arena allows spectators to feel connected to the action, while the focus on breakaway roping provides a clear and exciting entry point to understanding western sports.

Longtime rodeo enthusiasts will appreciate the event's commitment to authentic competition and proper stock handling. The PRCA sanctions ensure that all aspects of the event meet the highest standards for both human competitors and animal athletes.

A Tradition Worth Experiencing

As the sun sets over Brother Moore Arena each evening of the event, the golden California light will illuminate more than just the dust kicked up by hooves and boots. It will shine on a tradition that continues to thrive in the modern era—a unique blend of athletic competition, cultural celebration, and community gathering.

The 2025 Stonyford Breakaway Roping represents an opportunity to witness some of the sport's finest athletes at the top of their game, competing in an event that demands split-second timing and years of dedicated practice. It's a chance to introduce younger generations to western heritage in an engaging, exciting format. And perhaps most importantly, it's an occasion to connect with a community that values tradition while embracing the evolution of rodeo sports.

Whether you're a dedicated rodeo fan who follows the circuit religiously or someone curious to experience this unique aspect of American culture for the first time, the Stonyford Breakaway Roping welcomes you to be part of a tradition that continues to write new chapters in its rich history.

Mark your calendars for May 2-3, 2025, and prepare to experience the speed, skill, and spirit of breakaway roping in one of California's most authentic western settings. When tickets become available in early March, secure your spot to witness this celebration of western excellence at Brother Moore Arena.

The rope is coiled, the horses are ready, and Stonyford awaits. We'll see you at the rodeo.

The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association is proud to sanction the 2025 Stonyford Breakaway Roping as part of our ongoing commitment to preserving western heritage and showcasing the finest in rodeo competition.