Payson Roundup | Payson, AZ

Among the highlights of the August Doin's were a hometown cowboy's victory in the saddle bronc riding, a uniquely spiritual cowboy church and the return of a stock contractor who's been a part of the Payson Rodeo for 30 years.

In the saddle bronc event, former Payson High School student Jason Amon rode Sparrow Express to a tally of 84 and a firstplace finish.

At the traditional cowboy church, which was conducted Aug. 16 in the Payson Event Center stands, Philip Kiesner thrilled those on hand with his one-of-a-kind trick roping act set to gospel music.

During the three days of the rodeo, Jerry Honeycutt handled most of the logistics, including working as a pickup man, flank man, chute boss and announcer. On opening day, he took time to fondly recall the August Doin's of the mid-1970s when they were held in the Rumsey Park rodeo grounds.

"I was only about 7 or 8 years old then, but they were among my favorite rodeos," he said. "I loved that place (Rumsey Park); I followed my dad around doing whatever chores I was asked to do."

Jerry is the son of longtime Alamosa, Colo. rodeo stock contractor Roy Honeycutt.

For Amon, his win was worth $1,353.32 in prize money, which trailed only the championship payouts in the bareback riding ($1,373.13) and bull riding ($1,602.15).

Among the highlights of the August Doin's were a hometown cowboy's victory in the saddle bronc riding, a uniquely spiritual cowboy church and the return of a stock contractor who's been a part of the Payson Rodeo for 30 years.

Sparrow Express, the horse Amon rode, is a highly regarded bronc who is a descendant of Roanie, the Saddle Bronc of the Year at the 1990 National Finals Rodeo.

In 2004, while a senior at PHS, Amon won the Arizona State High School saddle bronc championship and was named Arizona Reserve All-Around Champion.

In 2005, he joined the pro rodeo circuit and has since traveled the country trying to make a living staying aboard uncooperative and disobliging steeds.

For cowboy church, about 80 worshippers turned up for the morning ceremonies hosted by cowpuncher preacher Coy Huffmon.

What the church-goers didn't know is that Kiesner, the featured performer in the Kiesner Family PRCA Specialty Act, would amaze onlookers with his roping showmanship and artistry set to gospel music.

"It was amazing, very moving," said arena secretary Karen Kissel.

Rodeo Boss Bill Armstrong agrees, "it was very impressive, I'm glad we had a good turnout for it."