Payson Event Center May 18-19, 2012 Thursday, May 17 Cactus WPRA Barrel Racing Gates open @ 5:00 PM Performance starts @ 7:00 PM Admission - 1 or more cans of food Friday, May 18 "Tough Enough To Wear Pink" night Gates open 5:00 PM Performance starts @ 7:00 PM Saturday, May 19 “Patriot” Performance to Honor our Wounded and Fallen Veterans Gates open 5:00 PM Performance starts @ 7:00 PM Ticket Prices ( Purchase Tickets Online - Click Here ) Adults (13-64) $14 Seniors - 65+ $12 Kids (8-12) $10 Kids - 7 and under Free Reserved $22 Active Military Card N/C Add'l information call 928-474-8837 OR 928-474-6684 History of the Payson Spring Rodeo During its earliest years, Payson's Spring Rodeo was part of the National Old-Timers Rodeo Association, now known as the Senior Pro Rodeo Tour. In 1987 it became the Gary Hardt Memorial Rodeo to honor the memory of the Payson native who died in 1987. Hardt was a well-known roper. He was recognized throughout the Southwest for his bull riding and roping talents. His rodeo career began in 1962 at the World's Oldest Continuous Rodeo in Payson. As a member of the Rodeo Cowboys Association, Hardt rode bulls for about 20 years.  During the last 10 years of his work in rodeo, he became a well-established roper as well. This memorial event benefits local youth with educational and athletic achievements.  The event is coordinated by the Payson Pro Rodeo Committee, led by Bill Armstrong.