Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo Equine Public Speaking Challenge

The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo Equine Public Speaking Challenge is open to students who are enrolled and attending public, private, or home school elementary or secondary schools in Texas and who deliver outstanding speeches on horse-related topics in the contest held as part of the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. The contest is open to youth ages 14-18, as of January 1, who present an issue in the Equine Industry with a possible solution. In 2026, $40,000 in scholarships will be awarded to the 1st through 5th placing contestants. The contest is conducted by the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo and the Texas A&M University Department of Animal Science. The 2026 contest date is January 18, 2026, held in the Richardson-Bass Building, Room C. The challenge consists of two rounds: a 5-minute prepared speech in Round One (top three scores from each room advance), and a Final Round for twelve contestants consisting of a 5-minute prepared speech followed by three questions from the judges panel. Students planning to pursue post-secondary education are welcome to apply.