Each year, since 2006, the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy has been honoring a Legend of ProRodeo at its annual Wrangler Gold Buckle Gala in Las Vegas, Nevada. The award is given to a deserving cowboy who even after their rodeo career is over, continues to devote their time and energy to the rodeo community.
Ken Stemler Pioneer Award
The Ken Stemler Pioneer Award recognizes those who have provided ground breaking, innovative ideas and forward thinking that help the development, advancement and success of the PRCA and/or the Hall of Fame and their missions. It is given to recognize those whose significant contributions through their service, dedication and positive influence, have enhanced the scope, reach or future success of both organizations. Ken Stemler was the recipient of the inaugural Pioneer Award in 2014, given to him posthumously, and it was named after him starting in 2015. This award is given out annually at the Cowboy Ball in August.
2016 recipients – Earl and Weldon Bascom
2022 recipient – John VanCronkhite
2026 recipient – Troy Weekly
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