Tom Hirsig Steps Down After 2027 Cheyenne Frontier Days Season
For decades, the name Tom Hirsig has been synonymous with the dust, grit, and grand spectacle of Wyoming’s most famous summer tradition. That era is drawing to a close. Cap City News reported that the Cheyenne Frontier Days Board of Directors announced Thursday that Hirsig, the chief executive officer of the annual rodeo and events series, will step down from his post after the 2027 season.
The announcement sets the stage for a lengthy transition period for the organization, which operates the world’s largest outdoor rodeo. While a replacement has not yet been selected, the board indicated it is retaining an external executive search firm to conduct a comprehensive national search. Chairman of the Board Tad Herz acknowledged the weight of the upcoming vacancy in a release issued by Cheyenne Frontier Days.
“While no one can truly replace Tom, we are committed to building upon the strong foundation he has helped create. We are incredibly grateful that he will remain with us through the 2027 show as we work together to ensure a thoughtful and successful transition,” Herz said.
A Lifelong Family Legacy in the Arena
Hirsig’s departure marks the end of a deeply personal chapter for a leader whose roots in the sport run generations deep. According to the board, Hirsig lives and breathes rodeo, backed by a family history connected to the event since its earliest days. Back in August 2018, Hirsig presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for a new seven-million-dollar, multi-purpose building at Frontier Park designed to house CFD headquarters, a project highlighting his long-standing administrative footprint on the grounds as detailed by Cheyenne Frontier Days.
Throughout his tenure, Hirsig championed the core pillars of volunteerism, community involvement, and Western heritage. Under his leadership, the massive summer celebration has continued to grow in both physical scale and international reputation, drawing top professional cowboys competing for more than $1 million in cash and prizes, alongside massive crowds for the PRCA Xtreme Bulls and nightly concerts, as noted by Visit Cheyenne.
The Path Forward for the Daddy of ’em All
With two full seasons left before Hirsig officially hands over the reins, the organization faces the delicate task of finding a successor capable of managing an economic and cultural engine that brings hundreds of thousands of visitors to Laramie County.
Board leadership emphasized that Hirsig’s connection to the event will endure long after his CEO title expires. “Tom’s love for Cheyenne Frontier Days is woven into who he is, and Cheyenne Frontier Days will always be a part of him,” the board stated, noting that he will remain part of the family as preparations begin for the 2027 transition.
