Larry Mahan may not have been born in Texas, but like many other cowboys, he arrived as quickly as he could. Born November 21, 1943 in Salem, Oregon, Larry will definitely go into rodeo’s history books as one of the greatest cowboys of all time.
He developed an individual talent for all three Rough Stock events, Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc & Bareback, each requiring entirely different styles and skills. An ability that has been matched by few in rodeo history. Using those skills, Larry captured five consecutive World Champion All Around titles from 1966-70 with a sixth All Around World Championship in 1973. Mahan also claimed two World Champion Bull Riding titles in 1965 & 1967. He is the first person to qualify for the NFR in all three Rough Stock events and remains the All Time leading NFR qualifier…26 times- in those events.
Maturity, both as a contestant and as an individual, saw Mahan overcome his natural shyness to become one of the best living advertisements in the history of professional rodeo; personable and articulate with a recognizable, respected and identifiable name. Today, Larry is a committed advocate of the Western culture, heritage and lifestyle.