WCJR AND IFYR ANNOUNCE 2026–28 DATES AND UNITE FOR MAJOR TWO-WEEK YOUTH RODEO BLOCKBUSTER IN OKLAHOMA

Guthrie, Okla. – The Cinch World Championship Junior Rodeo, presented by Montana Silversmiths (WCJR), and the International Finals Youth Rodeo (IFYR)—two of the premier youth rodeo events in the world—have announced their event dates for 2026 through 2028, ahead of their highly anticipated 2025 competitions. In a landmark move, the two events have coordinated their schedules to maximize opportunities for young athletes, creating a blockbuster two-week youth rodeo showcase in Oklahoma. 

Together, the events are projected to award nearly $750,000 in combined payouts. Future WCJR & IFYR Event Dates: 

“This partnership is a game-changer for youth rodeo,” said Dan Wall, General Manager of the Lazy E Arena. “By aligning our schedules, we’re removing logistical barriers for athletes and their families while creating a true two-week youth rodeo destination. Our goal is to give families the time and clarity they need to plan ahead and make the most of their summer rodeo season over the next few years.” 

Now in its 33rd year, the IFYR is one of the world’s richest and most prestigious youth rodeos, awarding more than $250,000 in prize money across 11 performances. The event annually attracts nearly 1,000 athletes from more than 35 states and three countries.

“Aligning with WCJR allows us to elevate the entire youth rodeo experience,” said Dale Yerigan, IPRA General Manager. “This partnership is about more than just scheduling — it’s about giving young athletes the best platform possible to compete, grow, and make memories that will last a lifetime.”

Open entry for the IFYR will open on April 1, 2026. 

2025 WCJR entries are open now HERE and will close on July 9 at Noon CT.  Late entries will open on July 9-17 and will incur an additional late fee of $50 per discipline. Full entry details are available at WCJRodeo.com. All Open Entry athletes will begin in the Qualifying Rounds.

In 2024, the WCJR paid out nearly $400,000. The 2025 event will include over $215,000 in guaranteed added money and bonuses. Open Entry is available to [CD1] athletes ages 10–19 (must be 15 for roughstock and steer wrestling).

Both the IFYR and  WCJR is open to youth athletes competing in 11 disciplines, which include Bareback Riding, Ladies Breakaway Roping, Saddle Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping Heading, Team Roping Heeling, Tie-Down Roping, Ladies Barrel Racing, Ladies Pole Bending, Ladies Goat Tying, and Bull Riding. 

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About Lazy E Arena

Located in Guthrie, Oklahoma, Lazy E Arena is one of the most iconic and versatile event venues in Western sports. Since opening its doors in 1984, the Lazy E has played host to some of the most prestigious rodeos and equine competitions in the world, including the Cinch Timed Event Championship and the legendary National Finals Steer Roping. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities, expansive grounds, and commitment to excellence, the Lazy E Arena welcomes hundreds of thousands of fans, athletes, and event partners each year. With a legacy rooted in tradition and a vision for innovation, Lazy E continues to set the standard as the world’s premier Western entertainment destination.

About WCRA DY (World Champions Rodeo Alliance Division Youth):

WCRA DY is a year-long leaderboard race of rodeo events worldwide, culminating at the World Championship Junior Rodeo (WCJR). The 2025 World Finals event will have over $2015,000 in added money and will take place in Guthrie, OK at the Lazy E Arena July 22-26. The 2024 events paid out nearly $400,000. Athletes can qualify by nominating their rodeo efforts and earning points for the WCRA DY leaderboard positions using the VRQ (Virtual Rodeo Qualifier). Athletes can nominate their rodeo efforts until Sunday, June 22, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. to nominate and earn points. The top 16 on the leaderboard will qualify for the event with no entry fees.