Red Bull Rancher Strong Heading to Tejas Rodeo

Red Bull Rancher Strong is heading to South Texas for its second-ever competition, bringing its rancher-inspired fitness race to Tejas Rodeo in Bulverde, Texas, just outside of San Antonio. The event will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, welcoming both men and women ready to test their strength, grit, and endurance in a one-of-a-kind athletic challenge.

A Unique Fitness Competition Inspired by Ranch Life

First launched in Fort Worth, Texas in June 2025, Red Bull Rancher Strong debuted as a first-of-its-kind fitness competition designed to replicate the physical demands of everyday ranch work. Unlike traditional obstacle races, the event’s course is inspired by the real-world skills required by cowboys, ranchers, and farmers, blending functional strength, stamina, and problem-solving into each challenge.

For 2026, competitors can expect a refreshed course layout that includes returning fan-favorite obstacles alongside new rancher-inspired challenges, all designed to push athletes beyond traditional fitness boundaries.

Who Can Compete

Red Bull Rancher Strong is open to athletes of all backgrounds, including ranchers, cowboys, obstacle course racers, and anyone who believes they have what it takes to be Rancher Strong. Participants come from multiple fitness disciplines, making the competition as diverse as it is demanding.

How and When to Apply

Interested athletes must submit an application to compete through the Red Bull Rancher Strong website.

Applications are now open!

Application deadline: February 1, 2026

Event date: Saturday, February 28, 2026

The event website will be updated regularly with competition details, athlete information, and course design announcements leading up to race day.

Elite Champions and Familiar Faces Return

The inaugural 2025 Red Bull Rancher Strong crowned two standout champions:

• Thomas van Tonder, world-renowned obstacle course racing athlete and official Red Bull Athlete from South Africa
• Arielle Loewen, decorated CrossFit competitor based in Midland, Texas

The 2026 competition is expected to welcome back familiar faces from last year’s field, including fan favorite Lance Pekus, widely known as the “Cowboy Ninja” from American Ninja Warrior. Pekus will once again serve as the Sportive Director, bringing his expertise to help design a course that truly reflects the toughness and resilience required of ranch life.

A True Test of Strength, Grit, and Stamina

With its South Texas debut at Tejas Rodeo, Red Bull Rancher Strong continues to carve out its place as one of the most distinctive fitness competitions in the country. By honoring the physical demands of ranching culture while welcoming athletes from all disciplines, the event delivers a powerful blend of tradition, athleticism, and modern competition.

Athletes looking to prove they have what it takes are encouraged to apply early and prepare for a course that celebrates the strength, grit, and stamina of ranchers.