We celebrate the thrilling tradition of rodeo, embracing the spirit of community, competition, and culture. Whether you're a seasoned cowboy or a curious first-timer, there's a place for everyone here. Join us in keeping the rodeo spirit alive!
The mission of the Gus Trent Rodeo Association is to empower youth and strengthen communities through horsemanship, rodeo education, mentorship, and character development. We provide positive, hands-on experiences that build confidence, leadership, responsibility, and life skills while preserving the rich traditions and cultural heritage of rodeo.
We serve youth between the ages of 5 and 16, and there is no other program like it in Tampa. Most young people growing up in the inner city have little to no exposure to the equine world.
Gus Trent Rodeo Association was established to aid youth in learning about the various events associated with rodeo. These events include Barrel Racing, Tie Down roping, Break Away roping, Goat tying, steer wrestling, steer undecorating and relay racing.
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Explore our upcoming rodeo events and be part of the excitement. From thrilling competitions to family-friendly entertainment, there's something for everyone.
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Find out how you can be a part of our rodeo family. Whether you're interested in volunteering, sponsorship, or simply attending our events, there's a way for everyone to contribute.
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Read NowGet to know the passionate individuals behind Gus Trent Rodeo Association. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to bring the thrill of rodeo to communities and enthusiasts.
Meet the Team
Two families on what a season at the ranch changed for their daughters.
Our experience with riding lessons with Gus Trent Horse Ranch has been exceptional. My daughter was 12 when she began riding lessons. We were looking for an experience outside of the typical urban activities offered in our South Tampa area. Our daughter has learned more at the Horse Ranch than any other extracurricular activity she has participated in.
When she began she was unfamiliar with horses and timid in the saddle but quickly gained knowledge of horses and a skill set that is comparable to only the most advanced athletic activities. During her lessons she learned how to care for the horses, how to ready them for riding, and how to care for them after exercising them. She became proficient at goat tying, barrel racing and steer decorating.
The most wonderful part for us as parents was watching her confidence grow along with her respect for the animals and rodeo events. Mr. Gus is an incredible instructor and always showed the highest level of concern for our daughter as a student and as a person. It is obvious that he is concerned for the student developing not only riding skills but virtue and character as a person.
Haley has been participating in horseback riding lessons for approximately a year and a half, and the growth we have seen in her during this time has been remarkable.
As a child with ADHD, Haley often struggles with focus, consistency, and confidence. We initially sought out horseback riding after learning about its therapeutic benefits for neurodivergent children, hoping it might provide her with a positive and engaging outlet. What we found has far exceeded our expectations.
Through her lessons, Haley has developed increased focus, patience, and perseverance. Riding has taught her how to manage challenges, whether it is working through difficult tasks, adapting to changing conditions such as the Florida heat, or pushing herself to continue when something feels hard. These are skills that extend far beyond the arena and into her daily life.
Perhaps most importantly, this program has given Haley a sense of confidence and accomplishment. She looks forward to her lessons each week with enthusiasm and pride. It is one of the few activities where she is fully engaged, motivated, and eager to improve.
As we embark on our journey to uphold the rodeo tradition, we are proud to join forces with our esteemed sponsors who share our passion and dedication. Together, we strive to elevate the rodeo experience and create unforgettable moments for our community and fans.
