April 26, 2023 – Fort Worth, Texas – After a successful 2023 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR), the board of directors, executive committee and officers of the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show met yesterday to receive reports on this year’s Show and conduct official business.
Matt Carter was appointed general manager by the organization’s executive committee. Carter assumes the title and role previously held by longtime Stock Show officer, Brad Barnes. In assuming the executive management position for the 127-year-old organization, Carter now directs its day-to-day operations. Although joining the Stock Show’s fulltime staff as senior executive vice president in 2021, he previously served as a volunteer beginning as a livestock show superintendent in 2009 and was later elected to the organization’s board of directors and executive committee.
“It’s humbling to be appointed to a role held by just a few individuals in the Stock Show’s storied history,” said Carter. “I have big boots to fill and I’m honored to step into this role following the exemplary leadership of Brad Barnes.”
Barnes, who will continue serving in important governance and operational roles, was re-elected the organization’s president by the Stock Show’s board of directors who also elected other officers including: Edward P. Bass, chairman; Elaine Agather, secretary; Randy Rogers, treasurer; and Charlie Geren, vice president. Scott Kleberg and Phillip Williamson were also elected to new vice president positions in order to broaden participation in leadership roles with Fort Worth’s oldest and largest public event.
“We have an outstanding and cohesive officer corps in place that will make crucial decisions for our future,” said Barnes. “There’s a great mix of institutional knowledge and tried-and-true experience coupled with innovation and foresight that will ensure the Stock Show is in good hands for decades to come.”
Barnes also reported on a record-breaking 2023 Stock Show in his annual report to the organization’s membership. Estimated grounds attendance was 1,271,250 eclipsing the record set in 2020. Attendees included 1,097 visitors coming from 98 nations across the globe. Rodeo tickets sold topped 93 percent of capacity in Dickies Arena with 222,238 ticket holders enjoying 25 rodeo performances. The Show’s legendary Jr. Sale of Champions garnered more than $7.5 million in auction receipts for 292 Texas 4-H and FFA members. Additionally, $947,500 in scholarships were awarded to 186 deserving youth and educational grants and contributions totaled $504,045 for the 2022 / 2023 fiscal year.
The 2024 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is scheduled for January 12 through February 3. Rodeo tickets go on sale to the public on September 11, 2023. For more information go to www.fwssr.com. or call 817-877-2400. The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo… This Thing Is Legendary!!!