PRORODEO Sports News - August 8, 2025

SKI-HI STAMPEDE NAMES ARENA AFTER COMMITTEE MEMBER CHARLIE BURD

By Zach Alvira

F

or 50 years, Charlie Burd has dedicated a portion of his life to the San Luis Valley Ski-Hi Stampede in Monte Vista, Colo., as a committee member. His love for the rodeo, which is known for being Colorado's oldest professional rodeo, has been unmatched for the contributions he has made for five decades. During the three-day rodeo from July 11-13, fellow committee members and the city of Monte Vista showed their appreciation in a way that will make Burd a part of the rodeo and town's history forever. The venue where the rodeo takes place was renamed to Charlie Burd Arena.

"It's huge for him and huge for our family," said Shawn Burd, Charlie's son. "It looked like he was go ing to buckle. He's received so many awards in his 50 years of dedication. But this is the ultimate honor. It was

emotional. It was enjoy able. It was powerful." Honoring Charlie in his 50th year on the committee began back in June when Monte Vista City Manager GiGi Dennis

announced a resolution that made July 11 "Charlie Burd Day" in the city. The decision to rename the arena was kept under wraps. A native of Monte Vista, Charlie com peted before he became part of the Ski-Hi Stampede Board in 1965. He participated in bareback riding mostly but was a team roper and bull rider to start. He was also a professional rodeo photographer.

He purchased a stock certificate in 1965 using his earnings. Two years later, he joined the Army.

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