The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and Rodeo Historical Society recently hosted its illustrious Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend, where the rodeo community gathered to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire future generations. Held on November 8-9, 2024, in Oklahoma City, this event marked another chapter in the storied history of rodeo by inducting new legends into the National Rodeo Hall of Fame.
Among those honored was Reginald “Reg” Camarillo, a pioneer in the rodeo discipline of team roping. Born on February 20, 1945, in California, Reg grew up roping alongside his cousins Leo and Jerold Camarillo. After a two-year stint in the Army during the Vietnam War, Reg returned home and, along with Leo, formed a formidable team roping duo that dominated the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) from the late 1960s into the 1970s. Their synergy brought them consecutive NFR average wins in 1969, 1970, and 1971, and again in 1975 with Jerold. Beyond his victories across the United States—from Phoenix to Denver, the Cow Palace in San Francisco to Las Vegas—Reg was instrumental in transforming the sport by promoting the dally-style of team roping, significantly influencing the techniques used in modern rodeo.
In addition to his competitive achievements, Reg was known for his willingness to mentor upcoming champions, often hosting team-roping schools across the U.S. and Canada, thereby helping to globalize the sport. His contributions were not only celebrated through his induction but also through reflections on his impact by those he inspired, including his cousin Leo, who noted, “Reg was both a revolutionary competitor and leader, with integrity and passion.”
The event also paid tribute to Trevor Brazile, recipient of the Ben Johnson Memorial Award, honoring his exemplary representation of the Western lifestyle. Born on November 16, 1976, in Amarillo, Texas, Brazile is a legendary figure in rodeo, known for his record 26 PRCA world championship titles and 14 all-around cowboy world champion titles. His groundbreaking achievements include becoming the first PRCA cowboy to surpass $3 million in career earnings. Though semi-retired, Brazile’s influence continues through his mentorship and his role as a family man, residing in Decatur, Texas, with his wife Shada and their three children.
The weekend festivities included a Champions’ Dinner, an Induction Ceremony, a Benefit Auction, an Inductee Panel Discussion, and a Rope ‘N’ Ride Cocktail Reception. These events not only celebrated the honorees but also supported the Museum’s ongoing efforts to preserve rodeo history through educational programs, research, and the enhancement of its American Rodeo Gallery and the National Rodeo Hall of Fame.
This year’s Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend not only underscored the rich history and evolving culture of rodeo but also celebrated the lives and legacies of individuals like Reg Camarillo and Trevor Brazile, who have profoundly shaped this uniquely American sport. Their stories of resilience, innovation, and commitment continue to inspire new generations of rodeo enthusiasts, ensuring that the spirit of the West remains vibrant and enduring.
