During the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, Don Endsley’s voice became a familiar sound at PRCA rodeos from New York to California and across the USA. Originally from Drasco, Arkansas, Don, along with his wife Sharon and son Tim, moved to the Fort Worth area in 1977, where they made their home for over two decades.
In 1984, Don served as the announcer for the NFR’s 20th anniversary, marking the last NFR to be held in Oklahoma City. After initially trying his hand as a bull rider in his early years, Don retired his spurs and took up the rodeo microphone, also working in television and radio. His experience in rodeo and broadcasting proved to be a winning combination, leading to a successful career as one of the top rodeo announcers and commentators in the sport.
In 1977, Don became the announcer for the renowned Tommy Steiner Rodeo Company of Austin, Texas. He lent his voice to numerous prestigious events, including the American Royal Rodeo, Dixie National Rodeo, State Fair of Texas Rodeo, Waco Heart of Texas Rodeo, and many others across the country.
Don announced at hundreds of top PRCA rodeos over the years, including five Texas Circuit Finals, six Indian National Finals Rodeos, Denver’s National Western, Dodge City Round-Up, and events in Belton, TX; Lufkin, TX; and Jacksonville Tops N’ Texas Rodeo, to name a few. He spent 20 years as the voice of the Santa Rosa Round-Up and announced for the Mesquite Rodeo, New Mexico State Fair, Houston Livestock Show, Elk City Rodeo of Champions, among others. Don also served as a commentator on many early rodeo telecasts and lent his voice to the movies “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys” and “8 Seconds.” In recent years, Don has worked for RFD-TV and Theatre in Branson, Missouri.
Reflecting on his career, Don expressed his gratitude for being present during such a vibrant era in rodeo history, witnessing some of the greatest champions, including horses and bulls, clowns, bullfighters, and acts. “It was a very special time to be part of it all then. I’m glad I was there to see it all,” he remarked.
After producing a western acts show for the Houston Livestock Show, Don and his family created the award-winning ‘Great American Wild West Show’ in 1996. This show now travels across the country to State Fairs, Festivals, Livestock Expos, and Special Events, continuing to celebrate and share the spirit of the American West.
