The BACK NUMBER

As the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo celebrates its 60th anniversary, it’s interesting to look at history and see what hasn’t changed. The traditions of rodeo, showing respect during national anthems, taking pride in a job well done and lending a hand to a fellow competitor sets the sport a part. Along the road, many memories are made, buckles are won and for the contestants who qualify for the NFR, another highlight is added to their rodeo resume.

That is as true today as it was in 1959 when ProRodeo’s first championship event was held in Dallas, Texas. When they held that rodeo, they set a standard and started practices that are still a major part of the NFR and ProRodeo.

For the contestants who don’t get awards during the competition, their back numbers remain symbols of their qualification and accomplishment. Jim Bob Altizer was the first contestant to pick up his NFR back number in 1959. He went on to win the world championship in tie-down roping that same year. Each of the event champions got a gold buckle and a new trophy saddle, an awards package that has also stood the test of time.

The back numbers at the NFR have become iconic and seen little changes through the decades. The signature shield shape and red white and blue colors were part of the first NFR and are still are. Names have been added and of course locations and dates have changed. Miniature versions have been copied in jewelry and made for family members that will be keepsakes for generations to come. The iconic symbol of the Wrangler NFR remains one of the most prestigious items in any rodeo contestant’s collection and is truly a sign of a huge accomplishment—competing at the world’s greatest rodeo.