Rule Book | WPRA

Spotlight on Rules

While an event is in progress, please remember to give judges and timers space to do their job. Speaking to the flag judge or timekeepers while an event is in progress can result in a major rule violation.
Refer to Rule 9.3.11. in the 2025 Rule Book.

Rule Proposals

Beginning in January of 2019 Rule Proposals Can Now Be Submitted All Year Long!

Rule proposals for the 2025 WPRA Rulebook will be accepted through 6/30/2024
Rule proposals for the 2026 WPRA Rulebook will begin 7/1/2024

When submitting a rule proposal you must include:
1. Your name
2. Membership #
3. Indicate if your proposal is a new rule or cite an existing rule that you would like changed.

Rule proposals should be submitted by current WPRA members only. You will receive an email acknowledgement that your email proposal has been received.

2025 Rule Proposals

Submit a Rule Proposal

Important Notice

The WPRA rule book has moved to digital distribution and at this time it is not available in hard copy. This is the current approved version of the 2022 WPRA rule book. From time to time, it may necessary to make updates during the rodeo year. When an update is made, notice will be posted on the WPRA web site and a communication will go out from the WPRA office to the membership letting them know that an update has been made. Therefore, it is important to periodically check the digital version of the rule book. When an update is made it will be highlighted in red.

Spotlight on Rules

3/14/2024 – While an event is in progress, please remember to give judges and timers space to do their job. Speaking to the flag judge or timekeepers while an event is in progress can result in a major rule violation.

Refer to Rule 9.3.11. in the 2024 Rule Book.

6/14/2023 – Check the WPRA schedule at WPRA.com frequently as that is the source of the most up-to-date rodeo approval information. It’s important to note that WPRA members shall not participate in a PRCA sanctioned rodeo that is not approved by the WPRA.

Refer to Rule 9.3.16. in the 2023 Rule Book.

5/9/2023 – As your rodeo schedules get busier, this is a reminder of the options available to you if you are unable to make it to your rodeo after you have entered:

Turnout through the online entry system (no later than 3 hours prior to your performance)
Release by calling Procom (no later than 3 hours prior to your performance)

Each option has different fees associated with them. Please be familiar with the full release and turnout sections 10.7. & 10.8. in the 2023 WPRA Rule Book.

11/2/2022 – The 2023 rodeo season began October 1, 2022.

WPRA members may continue to compete with their 2022 membership through the remainder of the calendar year. In order for circuit count and money won to go towards 2023 standings, a 2023 membership must be purchased on or before December 31st.

2023 WPRA memberships are now available. Click here for membership applications.

Refer to rule 1.3.4.1.2. in the 2023 Rule Book.

5/12/2021 – All rodeo entry fees must be paid the Tuesday following the end of the rodeo by 3:00pm Mountain Time (whether turned out or competed.) There are a few different ways you can pay:

• Pay online on your WPRA Member Portal (you can add a credit to your account at any time to go towards future fees)
• Pay the secretary at the rodeo
• Call the WPRA office

All entry fees not paid on time will incur a $50 late fee.

Please refer to Rule 9.2.4. in the 2022 WPRA Rulebook

9/3/2021 – If you cannot make it to a rodeo you have entered, you can turnout either through the online entry system or by calling Procom.

For a turnout to be considered “notified” you must turnout no later than3 hours prior to your slack or performance.

If you turnout less than 3 hours prior to your slack or performance it will be considered “non -notified”

When turning out, you are responsible for your entry fee as well as a turnout fine.

Notified turnout slack – $20
Non-notified turnout slack – $40
Notified turnout performance – $50
Non-notified turnout performance – $125

Please refer to rule 10.8. in your 2021 WPRA Rule Book.

2/1/2020 – A WPRA member is able to buddy with her husband at PRCA/WPRA rodeos. In order to buddy with her husband, the WPRA office must receive a copy of the marriage certificate by the rodeos membership dues date.

Please refer to rule 10.4.3.1.1. in your 2019 WPRA Rule Book.

8/1/2019 – After you have entered a rodeo, you must pay your entry fee either to the secretary at the rodeo or through the WPRA office through check or credit card. All entry fees must be received in the office by the Tuesday following the end of the rodeo at 3pm MT or you will be assessed a $50 fine. This helps ensure that the rodeo can be paid out properly.

Please refer to rule 9.2.4. in your 2019 WPRA Rule Book.

6/1/2019 – While an event is in progress, please remember to give judges and timers space to do their job. Speaking to the flag judge or timekeepers while an event is in progress can result in a major rule violation.

Please refer to rule 9.3.11. in your 2019 WPRA Rule Book.

5/1/2019 – When releasing from a rodeo it’s important to remember that you are unable to compete 7 days starting the first slack or performance you would have competed in. You will need to specify with Procom EACH rodeo you are releasing out of even if it falls within the 7 days.

Please refer to rule 10.7.1.1. in your 2019 WPRA Rule Book.

4/1/2019 – A WPRA member is able to buddy with her husband at PRCA/WPRA rodeos. In order to buddy with her husband, the WPRA office must receive a copy of the marriage certificate.

Please refer to rule 10.4.3.1.1. in your 2019 WPRA Rule Book.

3/1/2019 – Social Media is a wonderful tool for networking and keeping up to date with events. Please remember that fans, rodeo committees and sponsors may see what you post and that it’s important to be professional and appropriate. Contact your WPRA Circuit Director with any issues or feedback as they are in place to support the WPRA membership.

Please refer to rule 9.3.3. in your 2019 WPRA Rule Book.

2/1/2019 – Members should be keeping track of the balance on their WPRA account. Statements from the WPRA office are sent out the 20th of every month and are due the 20th of the following month. Failure to pay fees can result in being made ineligible. This can interfere with entering rodeos and renewing your membership.

Please refer to rule 10.4.4. (pg. 62) in your 2019 WPRA Rule Book.

12/1/2018 – Members should be keeping track of the balance on their WPRA account. Statements from the WPRA office are sent out the 20th of every month and are due the 20th of the following month. Failure to pay fees can result in being made ineligible. This can interfere with entering rodeos and renewing your membership.

Please refer to rule 9.1.2.2. in your 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

11/1/2018 – It’s time to start gearing up for the 2019 season and thinking about entering those big January rodeos. Keep in mind that These January rodeos have a member dues date prior to December 31st. In order to enter these rodeos you will have to purchase your 2019 membership by the member dues date for that rodeo.

Please refer to rule 1.3.4.1.1. in your 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

10/1/2018 – The time between October and the end of December can be confusing for members looking to renew their membership. Here is what you need to know:

Money won between October and December 31st counts for 2019 standings ONLY if your membership is renewed before the end of the year.

This means the WPRA office must receive your application and payment in the office by 12/31/2018. Anything received after this time is considered late and all winnings from October to December 31st will be forfeited.

Please refer to rule 1.3.4.1.2. in your 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

9/1/2018 – At this point in the year you’ve been able to compete at WPRA rodeos and Co-approved events. Many permit holders are winning money and should consider options for when their permit is filled.

After you have won $1,000 through WPRA events, you have the choice to upgrade to your rookie card OR purchase a permit extension which will keep you a permit holder for the remainder of the season. Each option is valid depending on your competitive goals and have a fee of $225.

NOTE- Entering on a filled permit can result in a $100 fine per occurrence.

Please refer to rule 1.3.5. in your 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

8/1/2018 – For those of you hoping to make it to your circuit finals, make sure you are familiar with the rodeo number required for residents and nonresidents of your circuit.

Keep up to date on the cutoff information and finals dates for each circuit on the WPRA website.

Please refer to rule 8.8.2. in your 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

7/1/2018 – When debating if you should use a release or turn out of a rodeo you cannot attend, consider the following:

– Do I have rodeos I will be competing at in less than 7 days from my release?
– How many releases have I used this season?
– What are the fees associated with each option?
Releasing from a rodeo holds a $25 fine (you are not responsible for your entry fee)
Notified and non notified turnouts hold different fees weather you are in a slack or performance. You will have to pay a turnout fine as well as your entry fee

-If turning out, will I be able to get my entry fees to the WPRA office by the deadline?
Your entry fee payment must be received in the WPRA office the Tuesday following the end of the rodeo by 3pm MST.

Please refer to rule 9.2. in your 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

6/1/2018 – Please be aware of fees that have increased in 2018:

Hat fine – $25
Release (per rodeo) – $25
For more information on fees, refer to rule 9.2. in your 2018 WPRA Rule Book

5/1/2018 – As the rodeo season is starting to get busier, it’s helpful to know some of the tools available to you when you are arranging your busy schedule.
New for 2018- contestants can trade into an open spot from a slack or performance. You can still not trade within your performance or slack.
Please refer to rule 10.6.1.5. in your 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

4/1/2018 – Releases are a valuable tool for you to use when unforeseen circumstances (such as an injury to you or your horse) keep you from being able to compete at a rodeo you are already entered in.

You will need to call Procom no later than 3 hours prior to the performance or slack you are competing in. Once released, you will be ineligible to compete for 7 days starting the day you would have competed.

Please make sure you are familiar with the release rules as to not misuse them, which can come with a fine.
Please refer to rule 10.7.1. in the 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

3/1/2018 – WPRA members may change their circuit designation at any point in the year, provided the member has not ENTERED any WPRA events during that membership season. (This included WPRA co-approved jackpots)

Please refer to rule 8.5.2. in the 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

2/1/2018 – An unpaid balance on your WPRA account can make you ineligible which can interfere with entering rodeos through Procom. Contestants may still enter a rodeo while ineligible as long as they pay their fees with the WPRA office prior to books closing. Failure to do so will result in being drawn out.

Please refer to rule 10.4.1.7. in the 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

1/1/2018 – Even though it is after the first of the year, there is still plenty of time to get your membership application into the WPRA office. Membership renewals received in January of 2018 will be assessed a late fee of $25. In February the late fee will increase to $50.

Please refer to rule 1.3.4.1. in the 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

12/1/2017 – Rule 1.3.4.1.2. December is the time to get your 2018 WPRA membership purchased! Any money that you have won between October 1st and December 31st will only count if you renew your membership before December 31st. Please take the holidays into consideration if you are mailing an application as it may take longer than normal for your mail to be delivered. The WPRA office goes off of the date your membership is received in the office, not by the post mark date.

11/1/2017 – Rule 10.7.1. What is a Release?
Unfortunate life events seem to happen at the most inconvenient times. Releases are a wonderful tool to utilize when needed. A release can be used in place of a turn out by calling Procom no later than 3 hours before your performance or slack. Instead of an entry fee and a turnout fee you are only responsible for a $25 release fee per rodeo. When using a release, you are unable to compete for 7 days starting the slack or performance you released from (ex. You released out of a performance on Friday you are not able to compete until the next Friday). A release can last as long as you need it to as long as you do not compete between releases. You are allowed 2 “groups” of releases per year. Please be aware that misuse of a release or the release process can be considered cheating, which is a major rule violation. If one has not competed within 3 months and releases from greater than 6 rodeos, you will become ineligible and will need to seek Circuit Director approval for future releases. You will need to provide proof. Please reference rule 10.7.1. in your 2018 WPRA Rule Book.

10/2/2017 – Rule 10.4.1.5. There will be a 2.5 hour time period after each closing time to allow contestant to draw out or change preferences. Adjustments must be made before the 2.5 time period expires, unless a further extension of time is allowed by Procom. (Example: conflicting entry closing times.)

Please note that the grace period has changed from 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours. Within this time period you may draw out of a rodeo or change your preferences without any fees.

9/1/2017 – Rule 8.4.2. provides, in part: Effective with the 2014 membership season. Non-resident, after a member has designated a circuit for three consecutive years, she will no longer be required to meet the non-resident required participation rule to be eligible to qualify for the circuit finals. After 3 consecutive years the member will be eligible to meet the same requirements as a circuit resident. NOTE: Each year the member must attach a letter to her membership application claiming her non-residence status change. On the fourth year the member shall submit a letter with her membership application stating she has met all requirements of the rule above.

I have addressed this rule previously in June 2016. One additional point I’d like to make is that if a non-resident member moves to a different circuit after becoming eligible to meet the circuit resident requirement, the member must start the 3-consecutive year process over again, except in the resident’s circuit. In other words, if the non-resident member moves and wishes to designate a different non-resident circuit, it is the member’s responsibility to, once again, comply with all requirements of Rule 8.4.2.

8/1/2017 – Morning Slack Turn Outs Schedules are crazy during the summer and turning out of a rodeo is sometimes necessary. Notify Procom 3 hours prior to the slack or performance you are set to compete in.

In order to meet the turnout deadlines you will need to be aware of when Procom is open in relation to when you are competing. For those that are competing in a morning slack, you will need to call Procom before it closes the day prior to be considered a notified turn out.

The number for Procom is 1-800-234-7722 and their summer hours are from 8am to 6pm MST

Refer to rule 10.8 in your 2017 WPRA Rule Book.

7/1/2017 – 9.2.4. Contestants TURNED OUT or COMPETING at the rodeo must pay entry fees to the rodeo secretary at the rodeo or entry fees must be received in the WPRA office by 3:00 PM Mountain Time on the Tuesday following the end of the rodeo. If not there is a $50 fine.

As the rodeo season becomes busier, it is important to stay on top of your fees. If you are unable to pay the rodeo secretary be sure to either send in your entry fees by mail (the office does not go by post mark date but by when the fees are received in the office) or you may also call the WPRA office and pay by credit card.

6/1/2017 – 10.7.1.1. If a contestant is releasing out of a PRCA / WPRA rodeo, she must notify Procom no later than three (3) hours prior to the performance or slack she is up in. Releases carry a charge of $20 per rodeo released.

When releasing out of a rodeo, be sure to use the correct terminology with Procom as to not incur additional fees. If Procom is contacted less than three (3) hours or not at all, the member will be charged for a non-notified turn out (this includes entry fee and turn out fee.)

5/1/2017 – 12.8.1. Contestant will be fined $50 and/or disqualified for not being ready to contest when her name is called by the judge or announcer.

Rodeos are run on a tight timeline. Please give yourself plenty of time to get ready to make sure you are on your horse and prepared to make your run when you are called.

4/1/2017 – 10.4.1.7. Must Not Be Ineligible. In order to enter a WPRA-approved rodeo or event, a contestant must be eligible at time of entry opening. A contestant who is ineligible at entry opening may still enter provided she settles her ineligibly status prior to entries closing. The WPRA office has the authority to correct entry related errors in its reasonable discretion. Draw Out Charge. Contestants drawn out of a rodeo due to ineligible status or inactive status will be charged the $5 per rodeo.

3/1/2017 – 12.9.2. If a rodeo is approved and set up for ten (10) runs, the ground must be worked after ten (10). If a rodeo is approved and set up for twelve (12) runs, the ground must be worked after twelve (12) runs. In both instances, turn-outs and releases must be included in the count.

2/1/2017 – 10.4.4.5. “A performance preference or out” At all rodeos, an “A performance preference or out” will be accepted as a parameter.

A parameter can be added on top of your preferences when entering a rodeo. If you don’t get put up in the performance that you put as your preference and you have used “A performance preference or out” you will be drawn out of the rodeo you entered with no fees assessed on your account.

1/1/2017 – 1.3.4.1. The WPRA “Dues paying year” shall commence on January 1 of each year and run through midnight of December 31 the same year. Annual dues shall be payable on or before December 31 of the calendar year preceding the dues paying year. Dues for WPRA card, permit, junior, active gold card members received in the WPRA office between January 1 and February 1 will be assessed a $25 late fine. WPRA card, permit, junior, active gold card member dues received in the WPRA office after February 1 will be assessed a $50 late fine.

All returning memberships received in January will have a late fee of $25. From February on there will be a late fee of $50.

12/1/2016 – 1.3.4.1.2. Points won after determination of the circuit and national year, but prior to the purchase of the next year’s membership, will not count for the succeeding year unless the member timely (by December 31) purchases membership for the succeeding year. If a member allows her membership to expire, all points previously won will be forfeited unless member purchases membership for the succeeding year (by December 31).

• If a member does not renew her membership by December 31, money earned from October 1 through December 31 will be lost.
• When submitting your member application, please be aware of the WPRA office hours (8:30am-5:00pm, MST) and please call the office to confirm that they have received your membership.
• If you are planning on entering a rodeo in early January, please make sure you meet the membership dues date in December.

11/1/2016 – 19.1.1. No WPRA member may wear any patch or signage (trade or service mark, logo, or other recognizable identification of a commercial business, product, service, or individual) of a Conflicting Rodeo Association (as defined in Rule 1.1.15.) on their clothing, tack, or gear in the arena or on the rodeo grounds of a WPRA-sanctioned event, or at a WPRA promotional or special event anywhere of any nature including, but not limited to, autograph signing, media, television or internet events, award events, or receptions.

10/1/2016 – 12.8.1. Contestant will be fined $50 and/or disqualified for not being ready to contest when her name is called by the judge or announcer.

9/1/2016 – 1.3.4.1.2. Points won after determination of the circuit and national year, but prior to the purchase of the next year’s membership, will not count for the succeeding year unless the member timely (by December 31) purchases membership for the succeeding year. If a member allows her membership to expire, all points previously won will be forfeited unless member purchases membership for the succeeding year (by December 31).

If you win money between October 1 and December 31 be sure to renew your membership Before December 31 or your money will not carry over to the next membership year.

8/1/2016 – 10.6.5. Contestant Cannot Trade

10.6.5.1. Contestant CANNOT trade from a performance or slack to an open position (release or turn out).
10.6.5.2. Contestant CANNOT trade within her performance or slack. Contestant will run where drawn.
10.6.5.3. Contestant CANNOT trade if so stated in ground rules, if contestant completes a trade, she will be disqualified from rodeo, but is still responsible for her fees and any applicable fines.

You are only able to trade with someone who is entered and competing in a different performance and if it is allowed in the rodeo ground rules.

7/1/2016 – 9.1.2.2. All amounts billed to members are due to the office by the 20th of the following month. If the billed amount is not paid in full, the member will be ineligible until account is brought current. Interest and/or other service charges will be assessed on all past due accounts, (i.e., June 30 statement, payment must be received by July 20 in full or member becomes ineligible.)

6/1/2016 – End of rule 8.4.2. Effective with the 2014 membership season. Non-resident, after a member has designated a circuit for three consecutive years, she will no longer be required to meet the non-resident required participation rule to be eligible to qualify for the circuit finals. After 3 consecutive years the member will be eligible to meet the same requirements as a circuit resident. NOTE: Each year the member must attach a letter to her membership application claiming her non-residence status change. On the fourth year the member shall submit a letter with her membership application stating she has met all requirements of the rule above.

Example: If a member sent in a letter with her application in 2014,2015 and 2016, she will be eligible to meet circuit resident requirements in 2017.

5/1/2016 – 10.7.2.1. A contestant may turn out due to illness or a visible injury to horse or contestant at the rodeo; provided the appropriate visible injury form is authorized by the judge.

You will need to locate a judge at the rodeo you are turning out of and a visible injury form must be filled out and submitted to the WPRA office. You will be responsible for paying your entry fees but no turn out fee will be assessed.

4/4/2016 – 10.4.1.5. There will be a ninety minute time period after each closing time to allow contestant to draw out or change preferences. Adjustments must be made before the ninety minutes expire, unless a further extension of time is allowed by Procom. (Example: conflicting entry closing times.)
You will not need to pay an entry fee or turnout fee if you draw out within the 90 minute grace period of the books closing for a rodeo.

3/1/2016 – 8.8.2. Forty Percent (40%) 15 Rule

8.8.2.1. In order to satisfy the 40%/15 rule, a contestant must comply with the following:

1.) If the contestant’s principal place of residence is within her designated circuit, said contestant must compete in either 40% of the rodeos within that circuit (based on the total number of rodeos during the previous rodeo year which held the particular event for which the contestant seeks to become a CR contestant) or 15 rodeos with that event within the circuit, whichever is less or;

2.) If the contestant’s principal place of residence is not within her designated circuit, said contestant must compete in either 40% of the rodeos within the circuit (based on the total number of rodeos during the previous year which held the particular event for which the contestant seeks to become a CR contestant) or 15 rodeos with that event within the circuit, whichever is greater (provided that, if there are less that 15 rodeos with a particular event in a circuit during a rodeo year a nonresident must satisfy this rule if she competes in 100% of the rodeos with that particular event in the circuit during that rodeo year). In order to qualify for your circuit finals, there is a required number of rodeos that you must attend in your circuit. These numbers are different for residents of the circuit versus non-residents. You can find the specific numbers for your circuit by visiting the news archive.

2/1/2016 – 8.5.2. Circuit designation may be changed by contestant during rodeo year, provided that contestant has not yet entered any WPRA event.

As long as you have not entered a rodeo (whether you competed or not) you are free to change your circuit designation at any time.

12/31/2015 – 10.4.1.6. Turn out and release information must be called into Procom three (3) hours prior to the scheduled performance time. If slack is held in the morning prior to the first performance, then deadline is 5:00 pm Mountain Standard Time the previous day.

Turn outs and releases are only notified if they are called in through Procom. Please remember to call in on time or you will be marked as a non-notified turn out.

12/1/2015 – 8.5.2. Circuit designation may be changed by contestant during rodeo year, provided that contestant has not yet entered any WPRA event.

You can contact the WPRA office to change your circuit designation as long as you have not entered any WPRA events.

11/1/2015 – 1.3.4.1.2. Points won after determination of the circuit and national year, but prior to the purchase of the next year’s membership, will not count for the succeeding year unless the member timely (by December 31) purchases membership for the succeeding year. If a member allows her membership to expire, all points previously won will be forfeited unless member purchases membership for the succeeding year (by December 31).
• If a member does not renew her membership on time, points earned from October 1 through December 31 will be lost.
• When submitting your member application, please be aware of the WPRA office hours (8:30am-5:00pm, MST) and please call the office to confirm they have received your membership.
• If you are planning on entering a rodeo in early January, please make sure you meet the membership dues date in December.

10/1/2015 – 10.4.4.4. “Out If Slack.” At all rodeos, an “Out If Slack” will be accepted as a parameter.

When entering through procom you are allowed 2 preferences. In addition to this you can add parameters, the newest being “out if slack”. When this parameter is used, if you are drawn up in slack in the rodeo you requested, you will be drawn out of the rodeo, the contestant will not be required to pay any fees.

9/1/2015 – 9.2.4. Contestants TURNED OUT or COMPETING at the rodeo must pay entry fees to the rodeo secretary at the rodeo or entry fees must be received in the WPRA office by 3:00PM Mountain Time on the Tuesday following the end of the rodeo. If not there is a $50 fine.

It’s important to remember that the fees need to be RECEIVED in the office by 3:00pm Mountain Time, this will help you avoid late fines.

7/31/2015 – 10.4.4.1. Once a member enters a rodeo, she has four options available to her: 1) Draw out in the ninety (90) minutes after the books close – does not have to pay entry fees. 2) After call-backs and entrant knows when she is up, she can turnout, meaning she will have to pay entry fees and be subject to a turnout fine. 3) After call-backs and entrant knows when she is up, she can Release and she will not have to pay entry fees but will have to pay twenty dollars ($20) per rodeo fine and cannot compete for seven (7) days from the first time the release is used. 4) Member can also trade at rodeos per rule 10.6.

REMEMBER: When calling Procom, a turnout means the contestant has to pay entry fees as well as a turnout fine. When releasing, there are no entry fees but a $20 release fee per rodeo and the contestant may not compete for 7 days.

7/1/2015 – 9.2.26 Permit members attempting to enter rodeos after permit is filled will result in a $100 fine per occurrence.
• Once a member has filled her permit, she must purchase her card or a permit extension.
• It is the responsibility of the member to keep track of her earnings to know when her permit has been filled.

6/1/2015 – 10.7.1.1 If a contestant is releasing out of a PRCA / WPRA rodeo, she must notify Procom no later than three (3) hours prior to the performance she is up in. Releases carry a charge of $20 per rodeo released.

10.7.1.2 A contestant is allowed a total of two (2) releases in a rodeo year.
Key things to remember:
1. The contestant needs to name each rodeo she is releasing out of.
2. The contestant is ineligible to compete for 7 days after the performance she has released out of.

4/30/2015 – 10.5.4 Contestants competing at the rodeo must pay entry fees to the rodeo secretary at the rodeo or entry fees must be received in the WPRA office by 3:00 PM Mountain time, Tuesday following the end of the rodeo.

In order for the WPRA to pay out a rodeo, all fees from that rodeo must be collected in a timely manner.

3/31/2015 – Turning Out
10.8.1. – There is a $10 fine to any contestant making a notified turnout in slack.
10.8.2. – Any contestant turning out a paid performance of a rodeo, when she is up on her first or second preference, will receive a fine of $50, unless slack was given as the first preference. Contestants must turnout through the Procom no later than three (3) hours prior to the performance she is scheduled to compete in. Entry fee must be paid.
10.8.4. – Failure to notify of a turnout during a performance shall result in a fine of $100.
10.8.5. – Failure to notify of a turnout during slack, $20.

	Slack	Performance
Notified Turnout	$10	$50
Not Notified Turnout	$20	$100

3/1/2015 – 10.6.5 Contestant Cannot Trade

10.6.5.1. – Contestant CANNOT trade from a performance to an open position (release or turn out) in slack.
10.6.5.2. – Contestant cannot trade within her performance. Contestant will run where drawn.
10.6.5.3. – Contestant CANNOT trade if so stated in the ground rules, if contestant completes a trade, she will be disqualified from rodeo, but is still responsible for her fees, and any applicable fines.

2/16/2015 – 10.6.1.5. – Contestants are allowed 6 free trades per competition year… DELETED

Contestants are now allowed unlimited free trades and conflicting trades.

10.6.1.1. – Eligibility. Contestants may trade positions in the first go round of a PRCA/WPRA sanctioned rodeo. A contestant shall be limited to only two first go round trades per rodeo at any given PRCA/WPRA sanctioned rodeo. Trades shall also be buddy groups of which the traded individuals are members.

As per this rule in the past, contestants were only allowed one first round trade. This helps the contestant get to the ultimate position that works best with their schedule.

1/3/15 Rule 10.4.1.5 There will be a ninety minute time period after each closing time to allow contestant to draw out or change preferences. Adjustments must be made before the ninety minutes expire, unless a further extension of time is allowed by Procom. (Example: conflicting entry closing times.)

11/4/14 Rule 1.3.4.1.2. Points won after determination of the circuit and national year, but not prior to the purchase of the next year’s membership, will not count for the succeeding year unless the member timely (by December 31) purchases membership for the succeeding year. If a member allows her membership to expire, all points previously won will be forfeited unless member purchases membership for the succeeding year (by December 31).

Example: A 2014 WPRA member competed in rodeos on October 14, 2014 and November 10, 2014 but did not renew their membership by December 31, 2014. Therefore all the points she earned for those rodeos are forfeited and will not go towards the 2015 standings.

10/1/14 With a new rodeo season coming up these are good rules to keep in mind.

Rule 10.7.1.1. If a contestant is releasing out of a PRCA/WPRA rodeo, she must notify Procom no later than three (3) hours prior to the performance/slack she is up in. Releases carry a charge of $20 per rodeo released.

Rule 10.7.1.2. A contestant is allowed a total of two (2) releases in a rodeo year.

Example: A contestant is up in Amarillo and Albuquerque and needs to release out of both. She would call Procom NO LATER than 3 hours before the performance she is up in (earlier is always better). She has made 1 release covering 2 rodeos and must pay $40 (releasing from 2 rodeos at $20 per rodeo). She now has 1 release left for the rodeo year.

8/1/14 Rule 10.7.2.1. A contestant may turn out due to illness or a visible injury to horse or contestant at the rodeo; provided the appropriate visible injury form is authorized by the judge.

Remember, it is your responsibility to take care of your paperwork at the rodeo with the judge.

6/2/14 Rule 10.7.1.4 A contestant who releases shall not be eligible to compete in a PRCA/WPRA rodeo for seven (7) days, beginning with the first performance on the day the release is used. (Example: if release is used for the first competition scheduled for the fifth day of the month, the first day the released contestant is eligible to compete is the 12th of the month).

It is important to understand when the count begins. Keep this example with you, it can be a costly mistake to enter too soon.

5/7/14 Rule 9.2.25. All chain, metal and wire tie-downs and bosals must be covered. Failure to do so will result in a $25 fine for the first offense, then doubling progressively thereafter.

The purpose of this rule to protect our equine athletes so be sure to use sufficient padding over the chain, metal or wire area.

3/1/14 Rule 9.3.3 Any member, member’s spouse, member’s parent(s), or person with any relationship with a WPRA competitor whether related or not who recklessly, knowingly or willfully causes trouble inside or outside the ranks of the WPRA by excessive complaining, willfully causing disturbances, or unnecessarily aggravating WPRA Officers and Directors, producers, secretaries, committees, judges, sponsors, employees, volunteers and/or tractor drivers.

Ladies the point is, remember you are part of a professional organization. How you or those traveling with you behave, sends a message about you and your fellow members. There is a correct way to handle differences. Discuss them in the proper setting in the correct way. Remember your Circuit Director is a valuable resource. Everyone wants to be treated fairly.

1/31/14 Rule 12.8.1 Contestant will be disqualified for not being ready to contest when her name is called by the judge or announcer. Remember, rodeo committees are putting on a production for spectators. You are a critical part of the production and its success. Be sure to have yourself and horse ready to get in the arena when called.

12/30/13 Rules 8.7 (after the 2013 Circuit Finals are finished), 10.3.5.2, 10.9.2, 11.1.1 and 11.1.2 have been changed from 5% to 6% being deducted from all rodeos (purse and entry fees). This applies to all rodeos starting on or after 1/1/2014. This is the same as the PRCA’s rule which was changed in October 2013.

12/1/13 & 11/5/13Rule 1.3.4.1.2. Points won after determination of the circuit and national year, but not prior to the purchase of the next year’s membership, will not count for the succeeding year unless the member timely (by December 31) purchases membership for the succeeding year. If a member allows her membership to expire, all points previously won will be forfeited unless member pur- chases membership for the succeeding year (by December 31).

It is that time of the year, don’t risk losing your points. Be sure to renew your membership in time.

10/1/13Rule 9.1.2.2 All amounts billed to members are due to the office by the 20th of the following month. If the billed amount is not paid in full, the member will be ineligible until account is brought current. Interest and/or other service charges will be assessed on all past due accounts. (i.e., June 30 statement, payment must be received by July 20 in full or member becomes ineligible.)

It is the responsibility of the member to keep their WPRA account current. When you enter a rodeo, you should enter knowing you are eligible to enter. Procom has a courtesy which they extend but can not guarantee……they may tell a member that you are flashing ineligible but they are not obligated. You are still responsible to know your status.

9/1/13 Rule 10.7.1.4 A contestant who releases shall not be eligible to compete in a PRCA/WPRA rodeo for seven (7) days, beginning with the first performance on the day the release is used. (Example: if release is used for the first competition scheduled for the fifth day of the month, the first day the released contestant is eligible to compete is the 12th of the month).

It is important to understand when the count begins. Keep this example with you, it can be a costly mistake to enter too soon.

8/1/13 Rule 9.2.4 Contestants TURNED OUT or COMPETING at the rodeo must pay their entry fees to the rodeo secretary at the rodeo or entry fees must be received in the WPRA office by 3:00 PM Mountain Time on the Tuesday following the end of the rodeo. If not there is a $50 fine.

The reason for this rule is that the rodeo must be paid out to the winners. Your fees must be part of the pot.

7/1/13 Rule 9.2.13.3 Anyone helping a WPRA contestant into the arena must adhere to the rules of the WPRA including but not limited to: dress code, not obstructing the alleyway, and conduct restrictions for professional behavior. Member will be subject to a fine of $100.00.

6/18/13 Rule 10.7.2. Visible Injury

10.7.2.1. A contestant may turn out due to illness or a visible injury to horse or contestant at the rodeo; pro- vided the appropriate visible injury form is authorized by the judge.

10.7.2.2. In this instance the contestant shall remain eligible to enter or compete in any barrel race following the performance which she has turned out because of visible injury. Contestant may not compete on the day released up to midnight of that day.

10.7.2.3. Entry fees remain in the payoff, but all turnout fines will be waived. Entry fees not paid to the rodeo secretary are sent to the WPRA office.

10.7.2.4. Visible injury forms signed by the judge of a given rodeo must be received in the WPRA office with that rodeo¹s results.

10.7.2.5. A contestant may be held back to the end of a go-round, with approval, due to injury of contestant if contestant was injured at a PRCA/WPRA approved rodeo. Injury must be witnessed/acknowledged by a judge and contestant must be able to show a valid medical release if requested. Contestant must be last out in the go-round in which she is held back.

4/3/13 Rule 10.6.1.5 – Contestants are allowed six (6) free trades (without another conflicting rodeo) per competition year. A free trade is counted against both contestants trading as recorded by Procom. If there is a conflict, the trade will NOT count against either contestant as long as contestants did not enter to set up conflict. Penalty for first trade offence is $50, any further trade offences will result in a $100 fine and disqualification from rodeo, and contestant will return any money won; which will be redistributed.

Free trades are an important tool that you can use as the rodeo season starts to pick up.

1/11/13 Rule 1.3.4.1. The WPRA “Dues paying year” shall commence on January 1 of each year and run through midnight of December 31 the same year. Annual dues shall be payable on or before December 31 of the calendar year preceding the dues paying year. Dues for WPRA card, permit, junior, active gold card members received in the WPRA office between December 31 and February 1 will be assessed a $25 late fine. WPRA card, permit, junior, active gold card member dues received in the WPRA office after February 1 will be assessed a $50 late fine.

12/1/12 Rule 12.3.7.1 – The Start Line is defined as the plane across the entire arena, fence to fence, regardless of the position of the electric timers. Crossing the start/finish line anytime before horse breaks electric eye beam to start run will result in a no time.

This rule refers to the start of your competition run — if you break the plane (even if on the outside of the electric timer), you will be given a no time. If you circle around and break the plane after your competition run, you will not be given a no time.

11/5/12 Rule 9.1.2.2 All amounts billed to members are due to the office by the 20th of the following month. If the billed amount is not paid in full, the member will be ineligible until account is brought current. Interest and/or other service charges will be assessed on all past due accounts. (i.e., June 30 statement, payment must be received by July 20 in full or member becomes ineligible.)

9/2/12 Rule 9.3.20 states that working horses on markers is a major rule violation. Please note rule 9.2.9 states horses shall not be worked around official pattern with or without barrels. Barrels shall be set not less than fifteen (15) feet off markers. THIS IS A MAJOR VIOLATION.

Please remember that 15 feet means no circling the markers within that distance at anytime whether working the pattern or circling a marker as you are riding around the arena.

7/31/12 Rule 10.7.2 Visible Injury: While the entire section refers to Visible Injuries, sections 10.7.2.3 and 10.7.2.4 are important to note.

With a visible injury you will still need to pay your entry fees. Your fines will be waived as long as a judge signs the visible injury form and returns it with the results to the WPRA office.

7/2/12 Rule # 9.3.3 Any member, member’s spouse, member’s parent(s), or person with any relationship with a WPRA competitor whether related or not who recklessly, knowingly or willfully causes trouble inside or…read more outside the ranks of the WPRA by excessive complaining, willfully causing disturbances, or unnecessarily aggravating WPRA Officers and Directors, producers, secretaries, committees, judges, sponsors, employees, volunteers and/or tractor drivers.

Also remember for those of you roping this year, the roping year end cut-off is September 4, 2012.

6/4/12 Rule 12.8.1: Contestant will be disqualified for not being ready to contest when her name is called by the judge or announcer. Remember, rodeo committees are putting on a production for spectators. You are a critical part of the production and its success. Be sure to have yourself and horse ready to get in the arena when called.

4/3/12 Rule 18.1.1 No horse shall be ridden in competition at a WPRA approved event if the horse has been administered a prohibited substance. “Prohibitive substances” include any drug, stimulant, depressant, tranquilizer, local anesthetic, steroid or masking drug, unless such substance has been administered as a therapeutic measure for the protection of the health of the horse. You may be unaware that this rule exists. Read it carefully.

Rule 10.6.1.5 Contestants are allowed four (4) free trades (without another conflicting rodeo) per competition year. A free trade will be taken from the member listed as initiating the trade, as recorded by Procom.
Be aware the contestant who makes the 1st call into Procom is considered the initiating party. A free trade will be taken from their four (4). Hold on to your confirmation number.

3/12/12Releases: Rules 9.2, 9.3.12 and 10.7.1 Remember you are allowed only 2 releases per rodeo year. If you use 3 releases you become ineligible and will have to pay a $250 minor rule violation fine before you can compete again. Use 4 releases and you have a major rule violation. Keep track of your releases!

1/8/12 – Rule # 9.2.3. Long sleeve shirts that are collared and have either buttons or snaps on the front of the shirt, jeans without holes, western boots and western hat must be worn for all rodeo performances and slack. Contestant’s appearance must be neat, clean and professional. Any contestant whose appearance is deemed unprofessional will be fined. The fine will be $100.00. Only a WPRA Board approved dress code ground rule will supersede.

12/19/11- Rule 9.1.2.2 All amounts billed to members are due to the office by the 20th of the following month. If the billed amount is not paid in full, the member will be ineligible until account is brought current. Interest and/or other service charges will be assessed on all past due accounts. (i.e., June 30 statement, payment must be received by July 20 in full or member becomes ineligible.)

10/3/11- Rule 12.8.1. Contestant will be disqualified for not being ready to contest when her name is called by the judge or announcer. Remember it is very important to Rodeo Committees that events run on a timely basis. You should be on your horse and ready to enter the area, as the contestant before you is leaving the arena. It is at the judge’s discretion to determine if you are not ready or taking too long to enter the arena. Not being ready when called can lead to a disqualification, be ready!

7/19/11- Rule 10.7.1 Releases. It is the busy time of the year with rodeos. Be sure to remember you are only allowed 2 releases during the rodeo year and when you initiate a release you can not compete for seven (7) days. It is important that you re-read the WPRA rules regarding the use of Releases.

10.7.1. Releases

10.7.1.1. If a contestant is releasing out of a PRCA/ WPRA rodeo, she must notify Procom no later than three (3) hours prior to the performance she is up in. Releases carry a charge of $20 per rodeo released.

10.7.1.3. A contestant is allowed a total of two (2) releases in a rodeo year. Competing in a WPRA co-approved event within the seven day period terminates that release. Contestant may compete at a WPRA co-approved event (barrel race approved with another primary association, such as a large 4D jackpot), but monies won will not count for WPRA national and/or circuit standings, if applicable, unless the seven (7) day grace period is up prior to competition. 10.7.1.3.1. Use of additional releases will result in a major rule infraction.

10.7.1.4. A contestant who releases shall not be eligible to compete for seven (7) days, beginning with the first performance the release is used. She may, however, continue to enter events that have entry closings during this time. It will be that contestant’s responsibility to notify the Procom of rodeos already entered so that she will be released. (Example: if release is used for the first competition scheduled for the fifth of the month, the first day the released contestant is eligible to compete will be the twelfth of the month) Anyone found in violation will be subject to a major rule infraction and forfeiture of all winnings including money, prizes and sponsor points.

10.7.1.5. Once a contestant releases out of a rodeo, she is out of the entire rodeo. Releases may not be used by go round only.

10.7.1.6. If Procom is notified of a withdrawal because of release prior to contestant competing in an event, her entry fee is not to be included in the payoff.

6/27/11 Rule # 12.7. Exhibition Runs 12.7.1. A contestant cannot make any exhibition runs until all her competition runs at that rodeo have been made. Contestant cannot have an exhibition run made by another person on her contest horse until all competition runs have been made on that horse. Violation will result in a major rule infraction (See Rule 9.3.20).

Be sure to understand the rule. It does not matter if you are on another horse or if someone else is riding your horse. The exhibition run can not be until AFTER the competition run is completed.

5/6/2011 Rule # 9.2.27 Procom Investigation — A fee may be charged to any contestant who files a discrepancy with the Central Entry Office. The determination of the charge will be based on the following. 1. If the contestant has the correct confirmation number and the Central Entry Office is found to be in error, no charge will be assessed. 2. If the contestant has the wrong confirmation number, a $15 fine will be assessed. 3. If the contestant is found to be in error, a $250 charge will be assessed.

Having good, precise communication with Procom operators is really important to avoid costly investigations. Particularly pay attention to how you request a turn out or a release. The largest percentage of investigations which we conduct involves members who claim they wanted to release out of a rodeo and were turned out instead. When we hear the recordings, it often goes as follows:

Member: “I need to turn out of “XYZ” rodeo. My horse is off. I am not going, so make sure you turn me out,”

Operator: “Ok you are now a notified turnout for “XYZ” rodeo. Your confirmation is XXXXX.”

With a turn out you are responsible for entry fees and a fine. With a release you are only responsible for a fine. When an investigation takes place, you will need your confirmation number for the process to go smoothly.

4/14/11 Rule # 12.3.7.1 The Start line is defined as the plane across the entire arena, fence to fence, regardless of the position of the electric timers.

Crossing the start/finish line anytime before horse breaks electric eye beam to start run will result in a no time.

Don’t make a mistake and think it only means within the eye beams. It could be a costly mistake!

3/7/11 Rule # 9.2.9.3 Member shall be allowed to set up her run as necessary, without circling. (if you circle there is a $100 fine). A spin or pivot is acceptable. No intentional dismounting. If a member takes an excessive amount of time she may be fined $100 at the judge’s discretion.

The intention behind this rule is to remind every competitor, when at a rodeo we are there to compete at a professional level.

The committee is expecting and the audience is paying for a professional performance.

It is not considered professional to circle. Setting up your run is important but you must be aware of how much time you are taking to do it. Be aware we are asking the judges to make the call if you are taking an excessive amount of time to set up.

2/14/11 Rule # 9.2.4 Contestants TURNED OUT or COMPETING at the rodeo must pay entry fees to the rodeo secretary at the rodeo or entry fees must be received in the WPRA office by 3:00 PM Mountain Time on the Tuesday following the end of the rodeo. If not there is a $50 fine.

It is very important to recognize, you really should pay your entry fees when you arrive at a rodeo. If you can’t, the WPRA does allow you the opportunity to pay them to the office by 3:00 PM Mountain Time on the Tuesday following the end of the rodeo. When you don’t meet the Tuesday 3:00 PM Mountain Time deadline , you are fined $50. Checks written out to those who placed at the rodeo reflect all entry fees. When you don’t pay on time the WPRA is advancing those entry fees.

12/17/10 The WPRA office is getting ready to print the 2011 Rule Books. To help you get familiar with some of the changes, the office is attaching the Board’s decision regarding proposals submitted by members. In addition the 2009 Rule Book is still listed on the web site.

11/1/10 Rule # 1.3.4.1.2 Don’t forfeit your points/$ won by forgetting to renew your 2011 Membership before December 31, 2010 !! Rule 1.3.4.1.2 clearly states…. “Points won after determination of the circuit and national year, but not prior to the purchase of the next year’s membership, will not count for the succeeding year unless the member timely (by December 31) purchases membership for the succeeding year. If a member allows her membership to expire, all points previously won will be forfeited unless member purchases membership for the succeeding year (by December 31)”

As a WPRA member you are responsible to be familiar with the rules , comply and be bound by them. (Rule 1.1.3) Don’t forget to renew before December 31, 2010 or else you will forfeit your points!!

9/8/10 Reference Rules # 10.7.1, Release Quick Facts- for PRCA Rodeos. A change was made to the release rule for 2010. 1. You must notify Procom no later than three 3 hours prior to the performance in which you are up. (If releasing out of slack, notification must be 3 hours before the prior night’s performance. If no prior night performance, it must be before 5:00PM MT of the prior day.) 2. You are allowed 2 releases per rodeo year. A release may cover several rodeos and the cost is $15.00 per rodeo. 3. When a contestant releases they are not eligible to compete for 7 FULL days, beginning with the first performance the release is used. You may continue to enter events that have entry closings during this time. NOTE: It is your responsibility to notify Procom of the rodeos already entered in order to be released. 4. When you release out of a rodeo it is for the whole rodeo. Example: if release is used for the first competition scheduled for the 5th of the month, the first day you will be eligible to compete will be the 12th of the month. 5. If try to compete in less than 7 days, it is a major rule violation. 6. If you use more than 2 releases in a rodeo year is a major rule violation. 7. You must send a release statement to the WPRA Office within 7 business days from the performance you are releasing. If the WPRA Office does not receive your statement in that time period, you will be assessed a $25 fine. 8. Release statements must include name, card #, rodeo(s) you’re releasing from and their dates.

7/1/10 SLACK- If NEEDED: Please remember that when slack is listed as “IF NEEDED” the rodeo may or may not have slack . It will depend on the number of entries which they received. Contestants have a 1.5 hour grace period after the rodeo closes where they can call Procom back to check numbers, change preferences or draw out without fees or fines. It is always important to verify slack dates and times when entering a rodeo and particularly important when listed as SLACK- IF NEEDED.

6/1/10 Rule 9.3.20 Working horse on markers is a major violation. This rule was changed from a minor violation to a major one with the 2010 Rule Book. You are not to work your horse on the markers once the pattern has been set regardless of time or if barrels are present.

5/3/10 This month I would like for everyone to be aware of rule 10.5.4 and rule 9.2.1.1 which are associated with payment of entry fees. 10.5.4 Contestants competing at the rodeo must pay entry fees to the rodeo secretary at the rodeo or entry fees must be received in the WPRA office by 3:00 PM Mountain Time, Tuesday following the end of the rodeo. 9.2.1.1 The WPRA Board of Directors will deal with minor violations. A contestant cannot be disqualified for any minor violations … Failure to pay entry fees by Tuesday (3:00 PM MT) whether turned out or competed….$50.

The WPRA must cover the entry fees that were not paid by a contestant so that checks from the secretary don’t bounce to the winners . The amount of money can average $30,000 to $50,000 during the slow season and can double during the busy season. This puts a huge financial obligation on the association and it is why it is imperative for you to get your money to the office within this time frame.

Please keep this on the top of your list as you are competing at the rodeos.

3/16/10 Minor Violation — Rule 9.2.23: Unnecessary roughness of a horse during competition or on rodeo grounds will result in a minimum $100 fine.

Major Violation — Rule 9.3.13: Abuse of a horse on rodeo grounds. This accusation must be supported in writing by at least two persons, the complaining party and one witness. The requirement of a witness is waived if the complaining party is a PRCA Rodeo Judge .

For the most part, the public does not realize our horses are not only our competitive partners but also an extremely important part of our personal lives. Abusing them does not make sense. Yet there are many eyes watching us when we are at a rodeo (when in the arena and anywhere on rodeo grounds) who may not know the difference between a reprimand or something far worse. Remember how you behave with your horse (anywhere at a rodeo and on rodeo grounds ) is important, be professional at all times. The WPRA takes unnecessary roughness and abuse violations very seriously.

1/15/10 – Rule # 1.3.4.1.1 says- membership dues must be received in the WPRA National Office no later than three (3) business days prior to the entry opening time of a given rodeo to allow time for processing. (Indicated as “member dues date” in the official publication).

This means- the WPRA office must have officially received, processed and changed your status to active a full 3 business days prior to the entry opening date.

Tip- If you wait until the last minute (such as the actual dues date) you run the risk that the WPRA office did not actually receive your application or could not process it. Plan ahead and don’t wait until the last minute.

10/27/09 – Reference Rules # 10.7.1, Release Quick Facts- for PRCA Rodeos. A change was made to the release rule for 2010. This particular rule change will go into effect as of November 1, 2009 so you have time to be aware of it. 1. You must notify Procom no later than three 3 hours prior to the performance in which you are up. (If releasing out of slack, notification must be 3 hours before the prior night’s performance. If no prior night performance, it must be before 5:00PM MT of the prior day.) 2. You are allowed 2 releases per rodeo year. A release may cover several rodeos and the cost is $15.00 per rodeo. 3. When a contestant releases they are not eligible to compete for 7 FULL days, beginning with the first performance the release is used. You may continue to enter events that have entry closings during this time. NOTE: It is your responsibility to notify Procom of the rodeos already entered in order to be released. 4. When you release out of a rodeo it is for the whole rodeo. Example: if release is used for the first competition scheduled for the 5th of the month, the first day you will be eligible to compete will be the 12th of the month. 5. If try to compete in less than 7 days, it is a major rule violation. 6. If you use more than 2 releases in a rodeo year is a major rule violation. 7. You must send a release statement to the WPRA Office within 7 business days from the performance you are releasing. If the WPRA Office does not receive your statement in that time period, you will be assessed a $25 fine. 8. Release statements must include name, card #, rodeo(s) you’re releasing from and their dates.

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