As the Folsom Pro Rodeo rides into town this week for another year of fireworks, family fun, and fast-paced rodeo action, the excitement in the community is palpable. But before the gates open and the first bull bucks out of the chute, it’s worth pausing to reflect on the remarkable individuals who made this beloved tradition what it is today. Behind every wild ride and standing ovation are the men and women who helped build the Folsom Pro Rodeo—not just into a holiday event, but into a lasting legacy.
The story begins with Dan Russell Sr., who played a pivotal role in founding the event in 1960. As the longtime owner of Russell Ranch—one of Folsom’s earliest and most expansive ranching operations—Russell brought both the land and the leadership needed to launch a full-scale rodeo that would honor local heritage. His vision laid the groundwork for what would become one of Northern California’s most enduring and celebrated Fourth of July events.
Another cornerstone figure was Jim “Digger” Williams, widely known as the rodeo’s “Arena Boss.” For nearly the entire history of the event, Digger devoted himself to ensuring the show ran smoothly. From dawn until long after dark, he could be found driving tractors, managing logistics, and coordinating volunteers with unmatched dedication and energy. His presence behind the scenes made him a legend not for what the crowds saw—but for everything they didn’t.
No conversation about the Folsom Pro Rodeo is complete without recognizing Cotton Rosser. As the head of the Flying U Rodeo Company, Rosser brought professional-level stock, skilled competitors, world-class rodeo clowns, and thrilling side acts to the Folsom arena. His longtime partnership with the rodeo elevated the show’s quality year after year, ensuring that fans always witnessed the best the sport had to offer.
Robert Smith, better known to generations of volunteers and crew as “Smitty,” was one of the rodeo’s most loyal workhorses. For more than 35 years, he was a quiet fixture of the arena, arriving early, staying late, and doing whatever needed to be done to make each show run like clockwork. His efforts were never about recognition, but his impact was unmistakable.
As the rodeo’s first chairman, Steve Beneto helped lay the foundation for what would become a thriving annual tradition. With firm leadership and vision, he built the event’s early framework and helped it evolve from a fledgling community gathering into a respected stop on the regional rodeo circuit.
Michael Riedinger transformed the social energy of the rodeo with his creation of “Mike’s Golden Spike Saloon.” It became the post-show gathering spot under the stars, where cowboys, locals, and volunteers could celebrate together. His vision for the saloon added a new layer of personality to the rodeo—one that lives on to this day.
For thousands of kids and families, Sharon Williams was the smiling, encouraging presence behind mutton bustin’. Known fondly as the “Mutton Busting mama,” she shepherded as many as 20 young riders into the arena each night. With patience and heart, she helped turn jitters into confidence and made sure every child felt like a star.
Carrying on Digger’s legacy, Michael Nunes stepped into the demanding role of Arena Boss. As the go-to leader of the rodeo’s volunteer posse, Nunes brought order, energy, and reliability to the often chaotic prep and show nights. His calm under pressure helped keep the show running smoothly year after year.
Known for doing just about everything, Joe Gurnsey was the kind of volunteer every event hopes for. From putting up banners and hauling equipment to serving as night watchman after the fireworks faded, he filled in wherever he was needed, always without complaint and with quiet pride.
Pam Christianson brought both structure and warmth to the mutton bustin’ crew. She helped each young rider into their safety gear, calmed nervous parents, and kept the backstage area running with military precision—and brownies. Her combination of efficiency and care made her a beloved presence behind the chutes.
A longtime sponsor and hands-on supporter, Marshal Crossan, former owner of Folsom Chevrolet, backed the rodeo for more than four decades. From the 1980s through 2021, Crossan didn’t just contribute financially—he was there on the grounds, helping, encouraging, and keeping the rodeo’s spirit alive through his enduring commitment.
Rich Fiutko took the reins of the Golden Spike Saloon concept after Riedinger, redesigning and rebuilding the space into what is now the Saloon Under the Stars. Each year, he led a small crew to transform the venue while also pitching in wherever else he was needed—gates, beverages, operations—you name it.
Karen West was the glue holding together front gate operations. From greeting guests and sorting out ticketing issues to managing snacks and solving problems on the fly, she became the steady hand that staff and volunteers relied on. Her dedication was so strong that an entire entrance gate is now named in her honor.
From his first day as a volunteer, Tom Lewis showed up with kindness, work ethic, and heart. Rising through the ranks over the years, he became a key figure in continuing the rodeo’s core values—hospitality, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to community.
Rich Reynolds first entered the arena not as a director, but as a rider. A competitor in bareback, saddle bronc, and even a bullfighter in the 1970s, Reynolds eventually transitioned to running the show behind the scenes. Today, as arena director, he brings decades of firsthand rodeo experience to guide each night’s performance.
These legends are more than names etched into a program—they are the living soul of the Folsom Pro Rodeo. Each one has given time, talent, and heart to help the show go on. Without them, there would be no grandstands, no fireworks, no cowboys, and no crowd cheering under the stars. As the community prepares to gather once again this coming week, their legacy will be on full display. You can read more about these Rodeo Legends on the official Folsom Pro Rodeo website at www.folsomprorodeo.com.
Rodeo Runs Thursday Through Saturday
FOLSOM—One of the region’s most iconic summertime traditions gallops back into town this week as the Folsom Pro Rodeo returns for three action-packed nights of adrenaline, community, and American pride. Running July 3 through July 5 at Dan Russell Arena, this year’s event continues a legacy that has made it a staple of Folsom’s identity for more than six decades.
First held in 1960, the Folsom Pro Rodeo has grown from humble roots into one of California’s most respected and well-attended rodeo celebrations. With its blend of professional rodeo competition, dazzling entertainment, and deeply rooted community spirit, the event continues to honor the Western heritage of the region while creating new memories for generations of rodeo fans.
At Tuesday night’s Folsom City Council meeting, Mayor Sarah Aquino officially declared July 3–5 as “Western Rodeo Days” in the City of Folsom. The formal proclamation celebrates the rodeo’s 64-year history and its role in preserving the traditions of Folsom’s western roots.
“For more than six decades, the Folsom Pro Rodeo has brought families and neighbors together to celebrate our community and our heritage,” said Mayor Aquino. “It’s not just about rodeo—it’s about honoring the history of the family-run cattle ranches that built Folsom, and the volunteers and organizations who continue to make it such a special experience each year.”
For Choose Folsom CEO Joe Gagliardi, the event represents far more than just thrilling rodeo action—it’s an economic and cultural engine that drives connection and civic pride. “The Folsom Pro Rodeo is a community event, first and foremost,” said Gagliardi. “Its storied history goes back over 60 years, bringing patriotic family fun to Greater Sacramento.”
Each night begins with a dramatic grand entry, setting the tone for a lineup of high-energy rodeo events that include bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, breakaway roping, and other classic competitions sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). Between events, the arena comes alive with thrilling acts like trick roping, aerial stunts from the Flying Cowboys, and the return of Bull Jumping—an electrifying event that challenges athletes to dodge, leap, and perform acrobatics with charging bulls.
A highlight of every performance, the Painted Ladies Rodeo Performers will once again take the spotlight, showcasing precision equestrian routines that have earned national acclaim—including an appearance in the Rose Parade. And for the youngest cowboys and cowgirls, mutton bustin’ returns, giving children a chance to hang on for eight seconds of glory atop a sheep, cheered on by thousands.
As always, each evening of rodeo ends with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the summer sky—an unmistakable signature of the Folsom Pro Rodeo that echoes its close ties to Independence Day celebrations.
Beyond the main arena, the Folsom Pro Rodeo offers a full festival atmosphere for families and visitors. Attendees can explore a variety of food and merchandise vendors, all of which have filled the available spaces for 2025. The venue also offers shaded seating, a clear bag policy, and security measures to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. The Saloon Under the Stars provides a lively lounge atmosphere with country music and refreshments and also serves as the site of the Choose Folsom business mixer during rodeo week.
“The Saloon Under the Stars is a spacious venue with room for chatting and dancing as the live music heats up,” said Gagliardi. “Whether you’re attending the kickoff party or connecting with local entrepreneurs, the rodeo is a fun backdrop for both serious—and not-so-serious—conversations.”
Folsom’s business community is also helping make the event more accessible. In partnership with SacRT, Choose Folsom is again offering free light rail rides to the rodeo with a valid admission ticket, and lodging packages are available for those looking to turn the celebration into a full weekend getaway. Guests who book two-night stays at participating hotels between July 3–5 can receive complimentary general admission rodeo tickets and paddleboard passes.
“Western heritage is in Folsom’s DNA,” said Gagliardi. “We’re proud of our roots, but we’re also a city that innovates—and the rodeo reflects that. From the high-flying motocross antics of the Flying Cowboys to the skilled horses of the Painted Ladies, the Folsom Pro Rodeo features inspiring acts that may even spark a little creativity of your own.”
For those arriving from out of town—or locals looking for a stress-free ride—free light rail service to Historic Folsom Station and a dedicated trolley shuttle make getting to the rodeo convenient. Local hotels are also participating in a Rodeo Hotel Package, providing bundled lodging and ticket opportunities for visitors.
Ticket options for the Folsom Pro Rodeo include general admission, family packs, VIP hospitality, and premium seating options. Tickets for opening night, Thursday, July 3, are officially sold out. However, tickets remain available for Friday, July 4 and Saturday, July 5. All tickets are available now at www.folsomprorodeo.com.
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