Screenshot via Youtube/NBC DFW

The man at the helm of the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, Brad Barnes, is preparing for his next chapter. He will retire in April after 38 years with the organization.

Barnes, who first attended the event as a child, started as a volunteer, later joining the staff full-time in 2004 before becoming President. Under his leadership, the rodeo expanded to Dickies Arena, increased payouts to $1.5 million, and put forth plans to improve the Will Rogers Memorial Complex.

“Our hope and our plan is that when we reach 2036 and the coliseum and the auditorium and the tower are all 100 years old, we’ve put the shine back on them and brought them back to their glory,” he said. “That is an awesome challenge but a great thing for the City of Fort Worth.”

A champion for Texas youth, he helped raise more than $100 million in scholarships and funding. The 2025 Junior Sale of Champions set a record, bringing in over $10 million.

“You know I would say that probably the thing that I’m most proud of is what together everybody has accomplished,” Barnes said.

In April, Barnes will step into a new role as President Emeritus, continuing his work as an advocate for both rodeo and the city of Fort Worth. Matt Carter, who took over day-to-day operations as the General Manger in May of 2023, will succeed Barnes and President.

“Fort Worth truly is where the West begins. Those tourists that come to Fort Worth, whether it’s a convention or just a family that comes for the weekend. I promise you, they’re coming for one reason and that is to experience the West otherwise you’re just any other big city,” Barnes said. “Why would they come here versus Dallas? Houston? Austin? Whatever? They’re coming here to experience the West and if we ever lose that, we run the risk of just being another one on the list.”