8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo Returns for Bigger Second Year in Portland!

PORTLAND, Ore. – The hugely successful 8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo returns for its second year, bringing a thrilling celebration of Black cowboys, cowgirls, and western culture to Veterans Memorial Coliseum on June 16, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Founded by Portland-based photojournalist Ivan McClellan, the first Black rodeo in the Pacific Northwest offers an immersive experience into the world of professional rodeo competitions alongside delicious food, music, and family fun. Last year’s inaugural event was a major success seeing a sold out crowd of 2,500 thrilled and inspired by Black cowboy culture. This year promises to be even bigger and better with 7,200 attendees and $60,000 in prize money on the line.

Ivan McClellan stumbled upon Black cowboy culture in 2015 when he was invited to a Black rodeo in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. “It was a transformational moment for me. I saw hip hop culture and Black church blended seamlessly with the western world.” This led him on a nearly decade-long journey documenting and promoting this extraordinary world. Ivan’s photography has been featured in campaigns by global brands like Wrangler, Tecovas, and Apple. His forthcoming photobook Eight Seconds: Black Rodeo Culture(Damiani) is an anthology of the work to this point. In this time the prominence in Black cowboys in popular media has exploded from Lil Nas X’s Old Town Road to Pharrel’s Louis Vuitton runway show featuring working cowboys and Beyonce’s new country flavored album Cowboy Carter.

Celebrating Black Excellence in Rodeo

The rodeo will once again feature top Black rodeo athletes from around the country competing in thrilling events like bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and mutton busting. Respected names in rodeo like Tre Hosley, London Gladney, and Tank Adams will travel from Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado and California to compete in Portland for their second year. The event aims to introduce modern-day cowboys to fans and  educate attendees about the rich cultural heritage of Black cowboys and cowgirls who have been a significant part of American history for centuries.

A Fun-Filled Day for All Ages

Beyond the competition, the 8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo offers something for everyone. Attendees can expect:

• Live music by DJ O.G.ONE
• Delicious food vendors featuring soul food and other options
• Exciting social media activations and giveaways
• A special VIP experience
• Vendor booths showcasing Western apparel and accessories

Community Support for a Growing Tradition

Oregon Community Foundation, an organization committed to making a lasting impact for citizens statewide, generously contributed to bring this event to life this year. The Eight Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo is proud to welcome back Tecovas, the Austin-based western wear brand, as a major sponsor.  Travel Portland is also returning as a supporter, recognizing the 8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo’s positive contribution to the city’s tourism.

About Eight Seconds

Originally from Kansas City, Ivan McClellan is a photojournalist and designer based in Portland, Oregon. Eight Seconds is the nine-year passion project that has taken McClellan across the country to photograph ranches and rodeos and shed light on Black cowboy culture, elevating their stories in popular media. Learn more at https://eightsecs.com/.

Join Us for a Juneteenth Celebration Unlike Any Other!

The 8 Eight Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo will celebrate its inaugural event on June 16, 2024 from 3:00 – 10:00 p.m. at the Expo Center in Portland, Ore. The monumental full day event will unite our community, immersing the audience in the western lifestyle. From activities on the grounds and brand activations, to barrels, bulls, and music inside the arena, there will be abundant opportunities to captivate and engage with more than 7,200 passionate attendees.

Media Contact:

Ivan McClellan

ivan@eightsecs.com