HARLEY MAY 1950 NIRA COW PALACE CHAMPION BULL RIDER

Trophy saddle for the champion bull rider at the college world finals rodeo. While campus rodeos occurred earlier (first in 1920 at Texas A&M), the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association was formed to structure the sport. The first official NIRA president was Charles Rankin and the organization began with three regions: Southern, Northwest, and Rocky Mountain. The First CNFR (1949) was held at the Cow Palace in San Francisco, CA; Harley May of Sul Ross State University was the first All-Around Champion that year, and the next year was the champion bull rider when he was awarded this saddle. Jockey is carved: 'CHAMPION / NIRA / BULL RIDER,' and fenders are carved: 'COW PALACE / 1950.' 16" seat, 1 - 1/2" cantle, 38" length. Provenance Ex. Harley May Dimensions: 38" Length.