Glacier Country News

Today, Congressman Ryan Zinke extended his congratulations to the Montana State University (MSU) Rodeo Team for their selection to participate in the 2025 Inaugural Parade in Washington, D.C., scheduled for January 20. This marks a historic moment as they become the first collegiate rodeo team to join such an event.

Zinke, who nominated the team, praised their achievements and highlighted the pride they bring to Montana's western heritage. "I am incredibly proud that the Montana State Rodeo Team was selected for this once-in-a-lifetime honor," he stated. "By selecting the Bobcats Rodeo Team, the inaugural committee chose to highlight not only Montana values but the West. Our culture, heritage and values matter, and President Trump knows that. The Bobcats are the finest in their sport and will make Montana proud – even Griz fans!"

MSU rodeo head coach Kyle Whitaker expressed his excitement about this unique opportunity. "I think it’s huge. To my knowledge there has never been a college rodeo team in an inaugural parade," he said. "It sets us apart and it shows how embraced we are, not just at the university, but through the whole state."

The MSU Rodeo Team will travel with 36 members along with family and support staff to Washington on Saturday. They will be joined by local horses for their participation in the parade. Approximately 200 Montanans are expected to attend President-elect Donald J. Trump's inauguration.

Montana State University boasts one of the most successful rodeo programs within the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, having secured nine National Team Titles and 35 national championships. The program emphasizes academic excellence alongside athletic prowess while celebrating Montana's rich rodeo tradition.

For further details about MSU's Rodeo Team, interested parties can visit their official website.