From Chanute Saddle Club
The Chanute Saddle Club has once again been recognized for excellence, earning the “Overall Best Dirt Award” for 2025 from the United Rodeo Association.
This prestigious honor is voted on by the barrel racers within the URA — an organization consisting of approximately 570 contestants, with 75 to 100 competing in barrel racing. Out of 58 rodeos across Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Illinois, the Chanute Saddle Club was voted as having the best arena ground of the year.
The announcement came during the URA Finals, held Oct. 31–Nov. 2, where the association awarded $122,461 in prize money for the 2025 season.
For those less familiar with the sport, barrel racers are known for being particular about arena conditions — and for good reason. Many invest upwards of $20,000 in their equine partners and treat them as valued athletes and friends. Safe, consistent footing is essential to protect these horses and ensure top-level performance.
This marks the third time the Chanute Saddle Club has received the Best Dirt Award — a testament not only to the quality of the arena, but also to the dedication that has spanned three generations of the Jordan family.
The first award was earned under the care and supervision of Jerry D. Jordan. The second, through the efforts of his son, Doug R. Jordan. The most recent recognition comes thanks to the work of Wyatt D. H. Jordan, Jerry’s grandson and Doug’s son. Wyatt, at just 21 years old, has proudly continued his family’s tradition of excellence in arena preparation.
The Chanute Rodeo is triple- sanctioned by the United Rodeo Association, the American Cowboys Rodeo Association, and the Missouri Cowboys Rodeo Association. This means contestants holding a rodeo card with any of these associations can compete in Chanute while earning points toward their year-end standings.
In addition, the Chanute Rodeo proudly welcomes local, non-card-holding participants, keeping the spirit of community and inclusivity alive in Southeast Kansas rodeo.
Mark your calendars — the Chanute Rodeo takes place the last Friday and Saturday of September each year. Tickets go on sale July 1st at www. chanutesaddleclub.org, where fans can also purchase official Chanute Rodeo merchandise online.
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