Hank and Lori Franzen, owners of Powder River Rodeo, grew up competing at rodeo events throughout the country and at the collegiate level while attending Casper College. After college they became members of the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA), Hank as a contestant and Lori as a timer.
The couple always wanted to own and operate a stock contracting firm and in 1986 they started Powder River Rodeo Company along with a partner. A year later, Hank and Lori bought out their partner and became the sole owners.
In 1988 they had 3 animals selected to the National Finals Rodeo. Powder River Rodeo has had livestock at every National Finals Rodeo since. The Franzens have established themselves as one of the most recognized and awarded firms within the PRCA. Their commitment to excellence has been recognized by the industry as they are recipients of the prestigious PRCA Remuda Award (2019).
Understanding the value of their livestock, Hank and Lori saw the potential in an outstanding bucking horse: Khadafy Skoal. The horse quickly became a star performer and was named the PRCA Bareback Horse of the Year 3 times, was a multiple top NFR Bareback Horse and was recognized by the industry with the ultimate honor when he was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2012. Khadafy Skoal was the rich beginning to their success which has included multiple Horse of the Year recognitions by the PRCA.
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Building on the strong foundation of award winning bucking horses, Hank and Lori wanted to take their firm to the next level by partnering with award winning bucking bull producers HD and Dillon Page - D&H Cattle Company of Ardmore, Oklahoma. Their partnership, which began in 2005, has yielded them success and multiple awards.
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The philosophy of the partnership is simple – have fun, be honorable, and provide committees and fans with a professional, exciting experience leaving them wanting more.
For the Franzens, this isn't just business, it's a family business.
They have built a strong foundation for the future based on trust, loyalty and hard work. The Franzen and Page families are committed to providing the best stock and best experience for their committees, fans and partners.
After 40 years in the business, they have an established reputation and pattern of success. The numerous awards and accolades bestowed upon them by the industry speaks to the quality of their livestock, production and partnerships.
It is deeply important to them that they leave a legacy for their children and provide more opportunities for growth to contestants, committees, partners and fans within the sport of Professional Rodeo.