What does it take to earn a place among the legends of RODEOHOUSTON?
In Episode 9 of “Mission Rodeo,” Katelyn Scates, director of sports and event presentations, takes listeners inside the RODEOHOUSTON Hall of Fame and reflects on the athletes and moments that have helped shape the history of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™.
The conversation also looks at the evolution of RODEOHOUSTON competition. Today, athletes compete in a tournament-style format across eight events, advancing through the Super Series toward the Semifinals and Championship — a structure designed to make the sport easier for fans to follow while showcasing elite rodeo talent.
“Houston was the first to come up with the format that we have now, with the bracket series. We’re really trying to educate our audience on rodeo itself, but follow a format they could follow, and in doing that, you have to be forward-thinking,” Scates said.
Scates also shares what goes into recognizing the athletes whose performances, careers and connection to Houston have earned them a place in RODEOHOUSTON history.
“If we’re going to do something, we are going to do it as first class as we can. And it’s a privilege for us to get to know them and their families and how they feel about their careers,” Scates said.
And for fans wondering who will join that legendary group next, Scates offers an exclusive look at the two newest RODEOHOUSTON Hall of Fame inductees for 2027: tie-down roping champions Joe Beaver and Fred Whitfield.
From unforgettable performances to the evolution of the sport itself, Episode 9 celebrates the people and moments that continue to define RODEOHOUSTON’s legacy.
New episodes will be released each Wednesday through the 2027 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Fans can follow along on the podcast’s dedicated Instagram account, @missionrodeopodcast, and by searching “Mission Rodeo” on their preferred podcast platform.