L-R, Kenneth LeBlanc, Tim LeBlanc, Roy LeBlanc, Gary LeBlanc, Clarence LeBlanc
Our History
Roy LeBlanc was more than a cowboy — he was a pioneer. In 1956, at a time when Black cowboys were often excluded from mainstream rodeos, Roy and a group of fellow riders in Okmulgee created their own arena for competition and community. His vision gave Black cowboys a stage to prove their grit, talent, and courage, and his leadership built a tradition that carried far beyond Oklahoma. For decades, Roy poured his energy into the rodeo, shaping it into an annual celebration of heritage and sport. Even after his passing in 2009, his influence lives on. Today, the Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo is the oldest continuously held Black rodeo in the nation — a lasting tribute to the man who believed that every cowboy deserved a chance to ride.
Leaving a Legacy
Roy LeBlanc was born and raised in Oklahoma, where he grew up with a passion for horses, ranching, and the rodeo life. In 1956, alongside 22 other Black cowboys, he helped establish the Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo — an event that gave Black riders a chance to compete at a time when segregation often kept them from the arena. Roy became the driving force behind its growth, known for his leadership, determination, and love of the sport.
For more than five decades, Roy worked tirelessly to keep the rodeo alive and thriving, welcoming competitors from across the country and building a tradition that blended community, culture, and cowboy spirit. He passed away in 2009, but his name and legacy live on through the Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo, which continues to honor his vision as the oldest continuously held Black rodeo in the nation.