North Dakota High School Rodeo Finals Hosted in Bowman

The Bowman Area Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted the 2026 North Dakota High School Rodeo Finals June 9–14. This marks the 38th consecutive year Bowman has welcomed the state’s top high school rodeo athletes for this exciting event.

Students from across North Dakota compete throughout the season to earn their spot at the State Finals and the opportunity to advance to the National High School Rodeo Finals. The week featured Rifle and Trap Shoot competitions, Cutting and Reining performances, and five main rodeo performances throughout the weekend.

The grandstands were packed with family, friends, and rodeo fans eager to cheer on these talented high school cowboys and cowgirls. The event also featured concessions, vendors, and commemorative clothing, adding to the lively rodeo atmosphere.

An event of this scale would not be possible without the tremendous support of local businesses, sponsors, and volunteers. From the many individuals working behind the scenes to organizations that assist with grounds preparation, hospitality, and event operations, it truly takes a community effort to make the North Dakota High School Rodeo Finals a success. The Bowman Area Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed their time, resources, and energy throughout the week.

In addition to the many volunteers and sponsors who make the rodeo possible, we would like to extend a special thank you to our local businesses for helping welcome contestants, families, and visitors to Bowman throughout the week. Many businesses offered extended hours, special promotions, entertainment, and additional hospitality efforts to enhance the rodeo experience. With the North Dakota High School Rodeo Finals and other community activities taking place throughout the week, Bowman was bustling with activity. We appreciate the businesses that went above and beyond to showcase the hospitality and community spirit that make Bowman such a great place to visit.

Each year, the Bowman Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes a Volunteer Honoree whose dedication and service have played an important role in the success of the North Dakota High School Rodeo Finals.

This year’s Volunteer Honoree was Cal Klewin.

Cal’s involvement with the North Dakota High School Rodeo Finals dates back to the very beginning. He was part of the original group that helped bring the State Finals to Bowman and assisted with the early arena preparations and event operations that helped establish the rodeo as a community tradition.

Over the years, Cal has served the Bowman community in many roles and continues to support regional growth through his work as Executive Director of the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway. His commitment to community service and willingness to step up wherever help was needed helped lay the foundation for an event that has now been hosted in Bowman for nearly four decades.

The Bowman Area Chamber of Commerce extends its heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Cal Klewin for his many years of service to the rodeo, the youth competitors who participate, and the Bowman community.

Performance sponsors for the 2026 NDHSRF included: Bowman Livestock Marketing, Bowman and Slope Soil Conservation District, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, Dakota West Credit Union, Dakota Western Bank, Frontier Travel Center, and West Plains, Inc.

A big congratulations to all of our local student competitors and best of luck to those advancing to the National High School Rodeo Finals. Thank you to everyone who helped make another successful year of rodeo in Bowman, and we look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.