Rodeo Killeen reports record attendance, international competitors and $1.3 million estimated economic impact

Brett Gordon, representing Rodeo Killeen and Rodeo Killeen’s board, told the council the 78th annual rodeo saw substantial year‑over‑year growth and delivered community benefits including a donated food drive, a scholarship and accessible programming.

Event highlights: Gordon said the rodeo’s prize money increases helped attract 563 professional rodeo athletes — “an increase of 218 over 2024,” he said — and elevated the event from a medium to a large category within the professional rodeo circuit. Organizers said competitors came from across the United States and overseas and that broadcasting on the Cowboy Channel increased marketing reach.

Economic and community impacts: Gordon reported an estimated $1.3 million economic impact for Killeen and said the event generated more hotel room nights, higher alcohol sales and increased airport traffic. Rodeo Killeen also donated more than 5,000 pounds of food to the local food bank and hosted a Special Hearts event for people with disabilities; the rodeo announced scholarship awards for youth (the 2025 recipient was Delaney Newman, Tarleton State University).

Facilities and future plans: Gordon said Rodeo Killeen does not own the rodeo grounds but has invested in arena sand and footing, VIP cover improvements, pen expansions and other work in coordination with city staff; organizers said they plan further ADA access improvements funded by sponsors and in‑kind support. Gordon said Rodeo Killeen will expand year‑round use of the grounds with quarterly barrel races and other rodeo events.

Ending: Council members thanked the rodeo committee for community programming, military and educator appreciation nights, and requested the organizers continue to pursue sponsorships to support veterans and ADA improvements.