Breakaway Roping Takes Center Stage at the 2025 Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show

When the crisp January air settles over Fort Worth, Texas, rodeo fans know it's time for one of the most anticipated events of the season: the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show Breakaway. Set to run from January 24 through February 8, 2025, this prestigious PRCA-sanctioned event brings together the nation's elite breakaway ropers for two weeks of heart-stopping competition at the iconic Dickies Arena.

The Art of Breakaway Roping

Breakaway roping has exploded in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. This lightning-fast event showcases the perfect blend of horsemanship, precision, and split-second timing. Competitors burst from the box aboard finely-tuned quarter horses, swinging loops with practiced precision as they chase down fleet-footed calves. Success is measured in fractions of seconds—a clean catch in under two seconds can mean the difference between championship glory and going home empty-handed.

What makes breakaway roping particularly thrilling for spectators is its accessibility. Even those new to rodeo can appreciate the raw athleticism and skill on display as the bright string attached to the saddle horn breaks away, signaling a successful run. Veterans of the sport, meanwhile, can marvel at the technical expertise required to consistently deliver winning times.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show has deep roots in Texas tradition. For generations, this event has celebrated the region's rich western heritage while showcasing the evolution of rodeo as a professional sport. The addition of breakaway roping to the program reflects rodeo's commitment to honoring both tradition and progress.

The synergy between the livestock show and rodeo competition creates a unique atmosphere that can't be replicated elsewhere. Many of the competitors grew up in ranching families, understanding that rodeo skills evolved directly from practical ranch work. This authentic connection to agricultural traditions gives the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show Breakaway a depth of meaning beyond mere sport.

Elite Competition

The 2025 event promises to deliver world-class competition with a purse of over $157,000 drawing the sport's biggest names. Based on last year's results, fans can expect to see phenomenal talent on display.

The 2024 champion, Josie Conner, electrified the crowd with a blistering 1.8-second run in the finals to claim the $20,000 top prize. Kinlie Brennise secured second place with a solid 2.8-second effort, while TiAda Gray rounded out the top three. The competition format—featuring brackets, wildcards, semifinals, and a high-stakes final round—creates multiple pathways to victory and keeps the suspense building throughout the two-week event.

The bracket system gives fans multiple opportunities to see their favorite competitors in action. Each roper gets two chances in their bracket to post their fastest times and advance to the next round. This format rewards consistency while still allowing for dramatic comebacks through the wildcard round.

The Venue: Dickies Arena

Fort Worth's state-of-the-art Dickies Arena provides the perfect backdrop for this prestigious event. Since opening its doors, this world-class facility has quickly established itself as one of the premier venues for western sports in the country.

The arena's design ensures excellent sightlines from every seat, allowing spectators to catch every nuance of the competition. The facility combines modern amenities with architectural touches that honor Fort Worth's western heritage, creating an atmosphere that feels both contemporary and authentically Texan.

Securing Your Spot at the Action

Mark your calendars—tickets for the 2025 Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show Breakaway will go on sale around November 24, 2024. Given the event's popularity, early purchase is strongly recommended.

Tickets will be available right here on this page when they go on sale. Various seating options will accommodate different preferences and budgets, from VIP experiences to general admission. Special packages combining rodeo access with admission to the livestock show will also be available, offering the complete Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo experience.

The event offers special discounts for military personnel, students, and seniors, making this world-class rodeo accessible to a wide audience. Mobile ticketing makes entry smooth and efficient, allowing you to spend less time in line and more time enjoying the action.

Beyond the Competition: The Complete Fan Experience

While the breakaway roping competition forms the heart of the event, the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show offers a complete western experience that extends far beyond the arena.

Food and Beverage

Come hungry! The venue features an impressive array of dining options that go well beyond standard concession fare. From Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex favorites to gourmet offerings, there's something to satisfy every palate. Grab a cold beverage and settle in for an evening of world-class entertainment.

Shopping and Merchandise

The event features extensive shopping opportunities where fans can browse western wear, custom boots, jewelry, art, and official event merchandise. Take home a memento of your rodeo experience or find that perfect piece to add to your western wardrobe.

Family Activities

The Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show is designed as a family-friendly event with activities for all ages. Children can enjoy interactive educational exhibits about western heritage and agriculture, while adults appreciate the craftsmanship on display in the livestock barns and vendor areas.

Accessibility

The event organizers have made accessibility a priority, with accommodations for guests with mobility challenges or other special needs. Designated seating areas, accessible restrooms, and clear pathways ensure that everyone can enjoy the rodeo experience comfortably.

A Day at the Rodeo

For first-time attendees wondering what to expect, here's a glimpse of what your day at the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show might look like:

Arrive early to explore the grounds and visit the livestock exhibitions. These impressive displays showcase prize-winning cattle, horses, sheep, and more, connecting the rodeo competition to its agricultural roots. Educational presentations throughout the day offer insights into ranching traditions and modern livestock management.

As evening approaches, the energy builds around Dickies Arena. Join the crowd streaming through the gates, perhaps stopping to purchase a program or event merchandise. Find your seats as the anticipation builds.

The lights dim, and a spotlight illuminates the dirt floor as the grand entry begins. Flags wave, horses prance, and the national anthem rings out. Then it's time for the competition to begin.

Watch in awe as the first competitor bursts from the box, her horse responding instantly to subtle cues as she swings her loop. The calf darts left, but she's ready, delivering a perfect throw that settles around its neck. The string breaks away from her saddle horn, stopping the clock at a lightning-fast 2.1 seconds. The crowd erupts.

Between competitors, enjoy the commentary from the announcer, who provides context about the athletes, explains scoring, and keeps the energy high. Music pulses through the arena, and special entertainment segments break up the competition.

Community Impact

The Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show isn't just a sporting event—it's a celebration of community and heritage that makes a significant economic impact on Fort Worth. Hotels fill with visitors, restaurants buzz with activity, and local businesses benefit from the influx of rodeo fans.

The event also supports educational initiatives through scholarship programs that help young people pursue careers in agriculture, veterinary science, and related fields. By attending, you're not just enjoying world-class entertainment; you're supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Broadcast Coverage

Can't make it to Fort Worth? The 2025 Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show Breakaway will feature extensive media coverage, bringing the excitement to fans across the country. Follow the event's social media channels for behind-the-scenes content, athlete interviews, and real-time updates on the competition.

Join the Tradition

Whether you're a lifelong rodeo enthusiast or curious about experiencing your first western sporting event, the 2025 Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show Breakaway offers an unforgettable experience that combines athletic excellence with rich cultural tradition.

From the thundering hooves and lightning-fast roping to the camaraderie in the stands, this event embodies the spirit of the American West. It's more than a competition—it's a celebration of skills honed through generations, a showcase of the special partnership between horse and rider, and a gathering of community united by appreciation for western heritage.

Mark your calendars for January 24 through February 8, 2025, and prepare to witness some of the most talented breakaway ropers in the world competing for glory at Fort Worth's premier rodeo event. Tickets go on sale in November 2024, and the countdown to rodeo season has already begun. We'll see you at Dickies Arena for what promises to be an unforgettable display of rodeo excellence!