RENO, Nev. — Now that the dust has settled on the 2022 Reno Rodeo, the 2023 officers are already busy planning for next year.
Incoming Reno Rodeo President Greg “Lightning” Williams has been actively involved with the rodeo for over four decades, having held multiple positions within the organization. Williams will be assisted by First Vice President Carrie Ann Sattler, who is set to take over as the organization’s first female president next year, and newly elected Second Vice President Jim Neil, who will be president in 2025.
“The Reno Rodeo is the best event in town. I know I love being a part of it every year,” said Greg “Lightning” Williams. “It’s been an honor to serve as Vice President over the last couple of years, but it’s an even greater honor being President. This group of over 900 volunteers will help make this year’s Reno Rodeo a buckin’ good time.”
Not one for the status quo, Williams has already left his mark on the rodeo in years past, leading several proposals and projects for the Association including the Rodeo State license plate program, the “Reverse R” logo and fireworks. He already has exciting plans for next year’s rodeo and doesn’t plan on stopping as the rodeo grows in popularity every year by introducing new social media initiatives and new western experiences for kids and adults outside of the arena.
To help Williams execute these plans is First Vice President Carrie Ann Sattler. Sattler has been involved with the rodeo since volunteering as a Wrangler at the age of 18. Over the years she’s held various positions, including serving as Sponsor Chair and as a part of the finance committee.
Second Vice President Jim Neil is a life-long Nevadan, longtime supporter of the Reno Rodeo and father of 2010 Miss Reno Rodeo Lauren Neil. Neil most recently had been treasurer and chair of the finance committee for the last three years.
Rounding out the officers, Debbie Sprague retained her position as secretary, a position she has held since 2015, while Justin Thomsen took over as treasurer. Thomsen was Neil’s finance committee co-chair for the 2021 programming year.
New terms began Aug. 1, 2022, running through next year’s rodeo set for June 15-24. Attendees can expect to see bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding and more. The event, sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association, features 10 exciting nights of rodeo competition, as one of the premier stops on the Pro Rodeo Tour. The action isn’t just in the competition; there’s also a full carnival, the Double R Marketplace, day events (many are free), an ever expanding food court, the Jack tent and much more.
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About the Reno Rodeo
The Reno Rodeo is a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) sanctioned sporting event, and one of the top rodeos in North America. Reno Rodeo Association is a non-profit organization made up of over 500 volunteers. The 2023 Reno Rodeo is scheduled for June 15-24. Competition includes bareback, team roping, saddle bronc, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, women’s barrel racing, women’s breakaway roping and bull riding. Like Reno Rodeo on Facebook and Instagram, follow us on Twitter, or for more information on the Reno Rodeo, visit www.renorodeo.com.