Larry Bruce Robinson
Rodeo Athlete - Inducted 2012
Larry Robinson helped shape amateur and professional rodeo as a contestant, organizer, and instructor. In 1975 at age 17, he turned professional and qualified for the Canadian Finals Rodeo. For two decades he was one of the world’s best Tie Down Ropers. He was a six-time Canadian Champion, seven-time National Finals qualifier, and the 1986 Calgary Stampede Tie Down Champion. Larry held tie down rodeo schools for more than 30 years and trained horses - including three that were named “Rope Horse of the Year”.
Larry won most of the major pro rodeos during his career - from the Calgary Stampede to the Houston USA Rodeo. He would drive and haul horses to 100 - 150 rodeo’s a year as he competed across North America. His ability to drive all night, day after day, then win and beat you, was what set Larry apart from his competitors; his mental toughness was just unbelievable.
Larry embodied the spirit and heart of rodeo. He raised the bar, set great examples, and paved the way for many future greats that followed in his footsteps. He received the 1997 C.N. Woodward “Cowboy of the Year Award”, which is given for appearance, sportsmanship, personality, and contributing to the betterment of rodeo. He was inducted into the Canadian Professional Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2006.
Larry, who grew up west of Innisfail, is currently the tie down director of the AB High School Rodeo and a volunteer with the Bowden Junior High and High School Rodeo.
