Spirit of the Rodeo Award
Presented to the individual, set of individuals, or team that exhibits commendable acts of kind, generous, and sportsman-like behavior toward other competitors, Rodeo officials, and/or guests.
The National Gas Rodeo committee meets during the event to evaluate and designate a winning team, individual, or company. The award is presented during the closing ceremony.
If you have any questions, please contact Stacey Bonine.
Honorees
- "Gas Masters" representing Duke Energy
2026
Cameron Smith (Captain), Jamie Exum, Cody Adamson, Dakota Boatwright, and Donald Latimore (alternate)
When unexpected circumstances left a team from another company without equipment, the Gas Masters stepped up and shared their own. Their selflessness, sportsmanship, and camaraderie truly embody the spirit of the National Gas Rodeo and the natural gas industry. - “Gassy Girls” representing Xcel Energy
2025
Victoria (Tori) Scheele, captain; Ellie Rumphol; and Jessica Cramlet, alternate were awarded the Spirit of the Rodeo award for their perseverance, hard work, and determination.
- "Only Fitters" representing Xcel Energy
2024
Edwardo Angulo, captain; Luis Mireles; Kyle Sauced; Dereck Villasana; and Zachary Romero, alternate were awarded the Spirit of the Rodeo award for displaying exemplary sportsmanship.
- "Kgas Cowboys" representing IBEW 304
2023
JD Linville, captain; J.P. Powell; and Casey Baliel, alternate were awarded the Spirit of the Rodeo award for displaying exemplary sportsmanship
- John Gann of MEA Energy Association
2022
Presented for his years of service to the National Gas Rodeo.
- “Native Gas” representing Navajo Tribal Utility Authority
2019
Presented for their ‘can do’ attitude and their infectious enjoyment of the National Gas Rodeo.
- Spire
2018
Presented for the countless hours of service provided by company volunteers towards making the Rodeo a success.
Trail Boss Award Honorees
The Spirit of the Rodeo Award was introduced in 2018 and replaces the Trail Boss Award.
The Trail Boss Award was implemented in 2001 to recognize an individual for exemplary service, leadership, and contribution to the National Gas Rodeo. Nominations for the award were reviewed and voted upon during the annual planning meeting.
2017 – Larry Buie, AGL Resources
2016 – Robert Cavaliere, Keyspan (retired)
2015 – Tim Ellefson, Colorado Springs Utilities
2014 – Mike Chitwood, Ed Young Sales Company
2013 – Patrick Wentworth, NiSource
2012 – Randy Utecht, Xcel Energy
2011 – Rich Muench, Xcel Energy
2010 – Mike Nizolek, Ameren
2009 – Mark Popov, Ameren
2008 – Mike Blum, Duke Energy
2007 – Scot Luchtefed, Ameren
2006 – Mike Ventress, Ameren
2005 – Ken Nichols, Columbia Gas
2004 – Connie Garrett, Ameren
2003 – Terry Wilson, Fairview Heights, P&R
2002 – Ron Pate, Illinois Power
2001 – Bob Barcum, Illinois Power