Each year the International Gay Rodeo Association chooses an individual to be Grand Marshall of the Rodeo. This year we are honored to be recognizing an individual that has made significant contributions to the International Gay Rodeo Association, the gay community, and to the promotion of the country and western lifestyle. The Grand Marshall for the 22nd Annual World Gay Rodeo Finals is Mr. John King.
In 1981 when CGRA was formed, John had 2 dream. His dream was to see a "coordinated mini rodeo circuit': That dream has certainly become a reality, but the rodeo circuit has definitely surpassed John's original dream. John has fully encompassed the IGRA dreams, goals, and all associated activities.
John has numerous accomplishments related to rodeo, and here are just a few:
John encourages his staff at all the Charlie's bar locations to be involved and support their local rodeo associations. He is, also, a very strong supporter of the rodeo associations by allowing fundraisers and meetings in the bars. Aside from managing the bars, John King is the only individual who has attended every IGRA Annual Convention and plans on continuing his attendance at Convention.
When John King became involved in gay rodeo, he had a goal: "To create a positive change for gay people who were born and raised in rural areas to have an outlet to develop their self-esteem:' He has encouraged people to get involved, to be themselves, and to do everything they can to make a difference, while at the same time having fun! Thanks to John King for playing a huge role in making IGRA what it is today and for everything he has done and continues to do for gay rodeo and for the gay community.
On behalf of the entire IGRA Board of Directors, and Finals Committee we would like to thank John for the time, effort and passion he has always put towards IGRA and the gay community. You deserve this honor, and we are happy to call you our friend and part of our large rodeo family.
John in our Hall of Fame
