Over the weekend in Denton, the North Texas Fair and Rodeo hosted a groundbreaking event—a gay rodeo show that drew crowds from all over the state. The Texas Gay Rodeo Association (TGRA) held its 41st Texas Tradition Rodeo. For many spectators, the show was not only a thrilling display of horsemanship and rodeo skills but also an important step towards greater inclusivity and acceptance in the traditionally conservative world of rodeo. NBC 5’s photojournalist, Kennedy DeRaedt, spoke with cowboys, cowgirls, and rodeo enthusiasts who have been involved with the show for years. Wade Earp has been a member of TGRA for over 30 years. His long list of accomplishments includes winning the “All-Around Cowboy” title multiple times, several event belt buckles, and royalty titles for TGRA and the International Gay Rodeo Association (IGRA).