General Info

Welcome To The

90TH ANNUAL
LEA COUNTY FAIR & PRCA RODEO

2026 Theme:

"Hats Off to 90 Years"

JULY 31 - AUGUST 8, 2026

Come enjoy the arts & crafts showcase, carnival, concerts, Xtreme Bulls Event, PRCA Rodeo, Livestock Shows, Commercial Vendors, and enjoy some of the best fair food in the area!

GATE ADMISSION

FREE ADMISSION until 5:00pm daily

Free 1st Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday All Day!

Adults (age 13 & Older) - $10.00 Children (age 6-12) - $5.00 Children 5 & Under - FREE

***NO REFUNDS*** ***NO RE-ENTRY***

***ABSOLUTELY NO LAWN CHAIRS ALLOWED IN THE GATE***

2026 Lea County Fair & Rodeo Schedule of Events

Fair Schedule

2026 Fair & Rodeo In Memory of & Dedication

In Memory of - Jim Smith

Jim Smith, born in Rising Star, TX in 1932 to Clinton & Ivy (Lasiter) Smith, moved with his family to Lea County in 1934. Soon after, in 1935, they moved to Monument, New Mexico, where they made their home until 1939. Jim attended several schools following his family while his dad worked in the oilfield. He finished his high school years in Monahans, TX where he was introduced to and found a love for rodeo, until his Graduation in 1951. After graduation, he worked on a ranch before joining the Air Force, serving from 1953-1957. Jim married Leola (Lee) in 1951 and had two sons, Doug and Foy. Jim brought his new family back to Lea County in 1962 and shortly after moved to Monument, NM. In 1965, his sons became active members of the Monument 4-H Club and later the Hobbs FFA Chapter, participating in County, State and many other fairs. Jim and Lee were active in the Monument 4-H Club as volunteers and project leaders. They continued to participate when their grandchildren, nieces and nephews became interested in 4-H. Lee passed away in 1995.

Jim was instrumental in starting the first Buyer's Breakfast, which has continued and has been very successful throughout the years. He has also been seen at the Lea County Livestock Sale working the sale as a ring man. For a couple of years, Jim was President of a club formed by parents and leaders to contact perspective supporters for the livestock sale. Over the years Jim saw the sale rise from $20,000 to $1,500,000. He was a sheep superintendent for 10 years during the 1970's and 1980's. His grandchildren Shaun, Katelyn, and Abby, benefited from his support, knowledge and his love for them during all their years of participation in the 4-H and FFA programs.
Jim was a member of the Commemorative Air Force, New Mexico Wing, located in Hobbs. He was a commercial truck driver and was proud to say he traveled each state in the contiguous U.S. Jim enjoyed being a hot air balloon pilot, fishing and welding his treasured horseshoe crosses, sharing them with family and friends. Jim loved the Lord, lived life to the fullest and was a friend to all. He was blessed to be married to Kay (Ellison) since 2001. She joined him in his support and love of the fair and rodeo.
He passed on September 19, 2025, in Lovington, NM at the age of 92. Preceding him in death were his parents, his first wife, an infant daughter (Peggy Lee), his sister and brother.
Survivors include his wife Kay Smith of Lovington, Doug & Alana Smith of Hobbs and their children Shaun Smith & Casey of Hobbs, Laura Smith of Las Cruces, NM, Katelyn (KK) & Trey Gonsalez of Carlsbad, NM, Abby & Cameron Bauer of Las Cruces, NM, Steve & Russell Ellison of Dallas, TX & Mike & Debbie Ellison of Andrews, TX.
Jim & Kay shared a beautiful family of 17 grandchildren & 11 great grandchildren.

In Memory of - Victoria Yarbrough

Victoria was 33 years old when she passed away August 10, 2025. This day was her Nanny, Judy Heard's birthday. She preceded Victoria in death.

Victoria was born and raised in Hobbs. She did not let titles define her. Her true calling was taking care of others. She had an incredible gift with children. Victoria was full of courage and perseverance. She spent most of her childhood in a wheelchair. It was from her wheelchair that she showed her goats and pigs. A huge thank you to all who helped her accomplish this.

Victoria did not know any strangers and was very kind and polite to everyone. She will be remembered for her warm smiles and gentle heart.

Victoria loved her family. She found joy in everything. She loved Jesus and telling others about Him. Victoria was loved and she loved hard.

Fly High with the angels our baby girl.

Dedication - Kris Allen

Kris Allen, Former Chairman of the Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo Board, is a lifelong public servant whose leadership has been shaped by decades of service to his community, both in emergency response and civic involvement. Raised in Andrews, Texas, Kris grew up deeply involved in athletics and school activities, developing the work ethic and team-first mindset that would define his career.

At the age of 18, Kris moved to Arizona to begin his journey in the fire service. He started as a Wildland Firefighter (Hotshot), traveling across the country battling some of the nation’s toughest wildfires. Those early years forged his passion for service and laid the foundation for a distinguished career in public safety.

Kris later moved to Hobbs, New Mexico, joining the Hobbs Fire Department and proudly following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Frank Allen, and his uncle, Tommy Ross. Through dedication, leadership, and a commitment to excellence, he rose through the ranks and ultimately served as Assistant Fire Chief before retiring in 2014 after a respected career protecting the community.

Retirement proved short-lived. Just one month later, Kris began a second career with Oxy in the oil and gas industry, where he continues to work today. Oxy has long been a strong supporter of the Lea County Fair & Rodeo — especially the livestock youth — a mission that closely aligns with Kris’s passion for investing in the next generation.

Kris’s love for agriculture extends to his personal life as well. He began his Longhorn cattle journey with two small calves, nurturing them with care and dedication. Over the years, he has grown that modest start into a promising registered herd, reflecting his commitment to preserving agricultural traditions and his enthusiasm for raising quality livestock.

Beyond his professional roles, Kris has served on numerous Lea County boards and organizations, including the Salvation Army, the Red Cross, United Way, and most notably, the Lea County Fair & Rodeo Board — an organization close to his heart. His leadership reflects a deep appreciation for the way the Lea County community consistently comes together to support local youth and agriculture.

Kris shares his life with his wife, Shannon Allen, a dedicated Nurse and Nurse Anesthetist who has served the Lea County community for over 35 years. Together, they raised three daughters — Katy Wright (married to Joe Don Wright), Maddy Allen, and Samantha Allen — all of whom proudly showed livestock at the fair. Today, Kris and Shannon’s greatest joy comes from their grandchildren, Sunny Blaire and Stetson Wright.

Humbled by the strength and unity of Lea County, Kris remains deeply grateful for the incredible experiences, friendships, and people who have shaped his journey here. He is truly thankful for the unwavering support from Lea County, The Lea County Board of Commissioners, whose encouragement makes all the difference. Kris appreciates the hard work and dedication of the Fair Grounds team, as well as everyone working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the fair to life. He extends heartfelt thanks to all past, present, and future Fair Board Members and their committee members for their commitment to tradition and progress. As the fair is in full swing, Kris encourages everyone to embrace the joy and fun it offers, knowing this moment is bittersweet for him, but he is filled with hope and excitement for the bright future of the Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo.

Dedication - Sarah Vickers

When Sarah’s family moved to Lea County in November of 1967, she quickly found her place in the community through 4-H. As a young member, she showed horses and entered sewing, baking, and other handicraft projects in the Lea County Fair. In 1970–1971, she helped break barriers as one of the first girls allowed to participate in Hobbs FFA, later earning first place at the State FFA competition in horticulture and range plant identification.

Horses have been at the center of Sarah’s life for as long as she can remember. She often jokes that in the early years she was simply “a passenger,” learning to stay in the saddle. With guidance from respected 4-H leaders and mentors—Ed Mitchell, Lowell Payton, Bill Cogsdell, Punch and Suzanne Jones, Don and Glenice Russell, and many others—her passion for horsemanship grew into a lifelong commitment. Their influence shaped her riding ability, her confidence, and her desire to teach and encourage others.

After high school, Sarah attended nursing school at NMJC and UTEP, spending 45 years caring for others as a dedicated nurse. Through every chapter of her life, horses remained her therapy and joy. She is the proud mother of her son, Jim Hawley, and daughter-in-law, Cynthia, and the grandmother of Cooper and Cayson. In 1990, she married the love of her life, Jay Vickers, sharing 33 wonderful years together before his passing.

After what she calls her “first retirement,” Sarah and Jay purchased a pecan orchard in 2000, which they have farmed ever since. Alongside agriculture and family life, Sarah has helped countless youth and adults learn to ride, grow their skills, and develop true horsemanship. A strong supporter of the Lea County 4-H program, she has donated saddles, buckles, and endless hours of mentorship.

From 2006 to 2018, Sarah volunteered with Judy King in the Lea County Horse Project, according to Judy, Sarah “jumped in” with both feet—coordinating clinics, securing sponsorships, organizing fundraisers, and handling luncheons for the county shows. Sarah’s presence was a steady, encouraging force for young exhibitors. As a ring steward, she spent many long summer days “sweating to death,” yet always kept her smile and her enthusiasm.

Though she is no longer formally involved in the project, Sarah continues to mentor riders and families throughout Lea County. Horses still hold a profound place in her heart, and the memories she’s created within the Lea County Horse Program remain some of her most cherished.

Sarah is deeply grateful for the connections she has made, the young people she has watched grow, and the community she has gained and helped strengthen over the years.

Dedication - Jace Reid

Jace Reid was born and raised on a family farm in Quanah, Texas. From a young age, he developed a strong passion for learning and agriculture, which continued to flourish throughout his formative years. Jace was deeply involved in leadership and community service by participating in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and taking on high school leadership roles. These experiences fostered his love for working with agriculture and supporting youth in his community.

After graduating high school, Jace attended Texas Tech University. During his time in Lubbock, he worked as a jeweler at Anderson Brothers Jewelers, where he met Stacy Medlin, a fifth-generation rancher from Lea County. Following their marriage, Jace and Stacy spent approximately three years working for Thacker Jewelry in Roaring Springs, Texas.

In 1990, Billy Royce Medlin reached out with an opportunity for Jace and Stacy to return to the ranch and help with its management. Together, they raised three children: Coby, Clayt, and Sarah. The family was always very active in the Lea County Fair, with all the children showing animals for many years. Jace was always willing to lend a hand to other show families, demonstrating his commitment to supporting the fair community.

While his children were growing up, Jace served his community in various roles. He was a Boy Scout Leader, 4-H Leader, FFA supporter, and the number one fan at his children’s sporting and school events. Jace has held several leadership positions, including serving as a board member of the Lea County Soil & Water Conservation Association, the Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame, and serving on the Lea County Electric Nominating Committee.

In 2013, Jace and Stacy made a significant investment in their family’s future by purchasing the old Holeman Ranch, located north of Maljamar. With a shared commitment to agriculture and a deep appreciation for ranching, they took on the responsibility of operating and maintaining the ranch. Their son, Clayt Reid, joined them in this endeavor, working alongside his parents to ensure the ranch’s ongoing success. Together, the Reid family continues to uphold their tradition of hard work and dedication to the land, strengthening their legacy in the community.

In 2017, after his children had moved on from livestock showing, Jace volunteered as the Beef Superintendent at the Lea County Fair. He enjoyed assisting and supporting exhibitors during the fair and played an instrumental role in establishing the Booster Bucket Calf show and the Ranch Feeder Steer show.

Jace is now looking forward to watching his grandchildren show animals. After resigning as Beef Superintendent, he plans to split his time between the Lea County Fair and the Lincoln County Fair, where his ten grandchildren will be showing animals for many years to come. He remains grateful for all the volunteers who dedicate their time and effort to making the Lea County Fair a success.

Dedication - Kayla Hinrichs

Dr. Kayla Hinrichs was a third-generation Extension Agent and lifelong 4-H member who has always viewed 4-H as more than a career—it’s her passion and calling. Her 4-H journey began in Curry County (1998–2007), where she exhibited livestock, competed in judging contests, and entered numerous Family and Consumer Sciences projects that instilled in her lifelong values of leadership, dedication, and community service.

In 2014, she became the Lea County 4-H Agent, a role she proudly held for eight and a half years. When she began, the program had only 28 screened adult leaders and limited youth participation. Through community engagement, volunteer recruitment, and innovative programming, Kayla revitalized the program—growing it to 76 screened leaders and increasing youth enrollment by 15 percent to over 200 members by 2022. She launched the Cloverbud Crew, expanded school enrichment programs, and created workshops that strengthened member skills and community connection.

Beyond her agent role, Kayla served as Open Youth & 4-H Creative Arts Department Head for the Lea County Fair, overseeing exhibits and supporting youth in both the Yucca Building and livestock barns.

In 2025, she earned her Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership, Learning with Emerging Technologies from Abilene Christian University. Her dissertation, Exploring New Mexico 4-H Volunteers’ Acceptance and Use of Technology: A Qualitative Approach, amplified volunteer voices and emphasized the importance of connection and innovation in 4-H.

Today, Dr. Hinrichs applies those same 4-H principles in her role as a science educator, where she integrates agricultural science and real-world agricultural applications into her curriculum. She uses her Extension background to connect students with hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences that highlight the link between agriculture, science, and everyday life.

Kayla remains deeply proud of her time as the Lea County 4-H Extension Agent, where she helped build a vibrant, community-driven program that continues to inspire the next generation of 4-H youth—and now influences the way she inspires the next generation of scientists and leaders in her classroom.

Dedication - Trace Wilhoit

Trace’s love for the Lea County Fair started in 1999, when he was just eight years old. That’s when he first began showing pigs, rabbits, and goats, jumping right into the fun and hard work that the fair offered.

After graduating in 2010, Trace took on a bigger role as assistant swine superintendent, working alongside his brother, Andy, and their dad, Clyde. Together they helped guide the swine program and supported the local 4-H and FFA kids.

By 2020, Trace stepped into the role of swine superintendent. With his wife, Whitney, and their kids, Rhett, River, and Rowyn, by his side, Trace led the swine barn with pride and dedication.

In 2025, Trace decided to step back from the superintendent role to spend more time with his family, focus on his kids and their animals, and take on a new adventure—starting the Mesquite 4-H Club. Though he’ll miss working directly with the fair, his passion for helping youth in Lea County’s 4-H and FFA programs remains strong.

Trace would like to thank the Lea County Fair and Rodeo for 27 years of memories and can’t wait to continue the tradition with his children.

Dedication - Clayt Reid

Clayt Reid grew up on the family ranch in Maljamar and attended Lovington Schools. While growing up, Clayt participated in 4H and FFA, showing steers and competing in livestock, horse, meats, wildlife, and CDM judging contests. Clayt was an active member of both 4H and FFA, serving in various leadership roles at the club, chapter, and county levels. Clayt gives credit to Lea County’s 4H and FFA programs for the many friends and experiences he had growing up and making friends across the state of New Mexico.

After graduating high school, Clayt attended New Mexico State University to study Agriculture. Clayt met Mary Beth Shivers while at NMSU, where they fell in love and are now married. They moved to the family ranch in Maljamar in 2013, where Clayt manages the Bar Heart X Ranch for his parents, Jace and Stacy Reid. Clayt and Mary Beth have four children, Christopher(10), Samuel(6), William(4), and Amy(4).

Clayt’s roots run deep as a 6^th generation rancher in Lea County, with his Great-great-great grandfather, Christopher Columbus Medlin, settling in the area in 1881. Clayt takes great pride in the ranching and agricultural heritage of Lea County, hoping to continue the legacy through his own children who are starting to participate in 4H and the Lea County Fair.

Clayt and his dad, Jace, started volunteering as Beef Superintendents for the Lea County Fair in 2017 and continued to do so for 9 years. During that time Clayt enjoyed working with many other volunteers that shared a similar passion for the Lea County Fair and the hard-working, agricultural youth. He would like to say a very big thank you to all the other Superintendents, Fair Board Members, and other critical volunteers that help make our great county fair happen every year.

Clayt’s constant passion for serving his community is shown through his time working with many great county organizations. He served two terms on the Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame, serving as Chairman for 2 years. Currently Clayt’s service to the community is as a volunteer firefighter with Maljamar Volunteer Fire Department, and as a leader of the new Mesquite 4H club.