Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame Inducts 2025 Honorees

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – On Thursday, March 27th, the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame (TCHOF) proudly inducted five exceptional individuals into its prestigious ranks before a sold-out crowd at the annual ceremony at Billy Bob's Texas. The inductees were honored in front of family, friends, and many current TCHOF honorees, celebrating their remarkable contributions to the Western way of life.

The 2025 inductees are:

• Josh Edwards – A highly respected PRCA pickup man with a 25-year career, Edwards has worked at over 25 top PRCA Tour Rodeos and been recognized as the 2023 PRCA Pickup Man of the Year. His contributions extend beyond the arena, serving as Vice Chairman of the PRCA Board of Directors and working to preserve rodeo traditions for future generations.

• Jo Ellard – A visionary in the equestrian world, Ellard has made a lasting impact through her passion for Western heritage, competition, and breeding top-tier cutting horses. Her contributions to the industry have elevated Fort Worth’s prominence in equestrian sports.

• Billy Klapper – A legendary bit and spur maker, Klapper's craftsmanship transformed the cutting horse industry and remains globally sought after. Inducted posthumously, his work and dedication to Western craftsmanship will be honored for generations to come.

• Mary & Byron Walker – A rare gold-buckle couple, Byron Walker is a PRCA World Champion Steer Wrestler and Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame inductee, while Mary Walker is a World Champion Barrel Racer known for her resilience and inspiring comeback. Together, they have contributed immensely to rodeo and Western heritage.

• R.W. Hampton, recipient of the Spirit of Texas Award – A Western entertainer with a deep-rooted cowboy background, Hampton has shared his love for the Western way of life through music, storytelling, and performances across the world, from rodeo arenas to international stages.

These honorees were recognized for their significant impact on the Western industry, and their legacies will be celebrated as part of the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Looking ahead, TCHOF continues to expand and reimagine its space, ensuring that the stories and legacies of honorees like this year’s inductees are preserved for future generations. The Hall offers naming opportunities for businesses looking to support the preservation of Western culture while gaining visibility in the industry.

For more information on sponsorships, naming opportunities, or how to support the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, please contact Andrea Ruby at andrea@texascowboyhalloffame.org or 817-614-7287.