The Colorado Gay Rodeo Association/Pikes Peak United Rodeo is Pleased to Announce the Selection of its Grand Marshal(s) for 1996; they are the Colorado Springs Chapter of CGRA Past Presidents during PPUR. They Include Don Johnson, Stan Relaford, Thorn Martin, Harold Colbert and Norm Relaford.

Stan and Don first brought the idea of a rodeo association to the Colorado Springs Area in 1986. In the first 2 years of the association Colorado Springs did not actually hold a rodeo because of the small number of members. The first actual rodeo was held in 1990 with Harold Colbert as President and Stan Relaford as Vice President of the Association. Stan is a founding member and still active in the organization.

After the first rodeo a new election was held. Thorn Martin (Major) was elected as President. Thorn's influence on the association was as a very capable fund raiser. During Thorn's administration many new and creative ideas for making money were tried, including beer bust, auctions, picnics and many other social events to raise money. Many of Thom's fund raising techniques are still used today.

The first rodeo was accomplished during the Presidency of Harold Colbert. He and his Board had the huge task of putting together the "Pikes Peak Unit Rodeo" with one day of scheduled events. However that found themselves putting together a two day event because of another organization pulling out of its commitment. This rodeo was held in September '90. The Board was then asked to host another rodeo in April of '91 (6 months later) and the following September '91 Colorado springs hosted a gymkhana. A very large task but Successfully accomplished.

Norn Relaford has been president of the Colorado Springs Chapter of CGRA and has presided over the Pikes Peak United rodeo in the Years 1993, '94, '95, '96. A successful rodeo has been accomplished in each year. Under Norm's Presidency membership fund raising social involvement, food drives and community activities have been a base for the Rodeo's continued success.

Because of the foresight, dedication and teamwork of these men who were the Colorado Springs Chapter of CGRA Presidents during the Pikes Peak United Rodeos, it grows stronger and more active each year. Thom, Stan, Harold and Norm have made a commitment to their friendship, guidance and innovation to preserve the western way of life.

We, the Colorado Springs Board and community wish to congratulate Don, Thorn, Stan. Harold and Norm and to thank them for their service.

Sincerely,

Colorado Springs Chapter CGRA Board 1996