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National Rodeo Hall of Fame
Inducted in 2026
David Motes
A native of Mesa, Arizona, David Motes was born into a rodeo legacy on June 29, 1953. The son of three-time NFR qualifier Glenn Motes, David’s prowess was evident early, winning his first all-around saddle in 1965 while heeling for his father. Since joining the PRCA in 1973, he has maintained his card and competed for 53 consecutive years, a testament to his unwavering discipline.
David’s career is highlighted by 22 NFR qualifications and the 1977 World Team Roping Championship, won alongside his brother, Dennis. A four-time NFR Average winner (1977, 1981, 1984, 1991), he also shares a rare distinction with his son, Ryan: both are winners of the prestigious Bob Feist Invitational (BFI).
Known for a tireless work ethic that saw him as a wrangler for movies, plastering houses and managing a Fresno vineyard to fund his passion, David’s resilience is unmatched. Even after a devastating 2018 wreck in Clovis that left him with 11 broken ribs, he returned to the arena just months later at Salinas.
Now 73, David remains a disciplined, driven athlete who saddles up and rides almost every day. Whether he is in Wickenburg for the winter, Salinas in July, or following the summer run through the Midwest, he is driven by a profound love for the sport and the lifelong friendships forged on the rodeo trail.
A native of Mesa, Arizona, David Motes was born into a rodeo legacy on June 29, 1953. The son of three-time NFR qualifier Glenn Motes, David’s prowess was evident early, winning his first all-around saddle in 1965 while heeling for his father. Since joining the PRCA in 1973, he has maintained his card and competed for 53 consecutive years, a testament to his unwavering discipline.
David’s career is highlighted by 22 NFR qualifications and the 1977 World Team Roping Championship, won alongside his brother, Dennis. A four-time NFR Average winner (1977, 1981, 1984, 1991), he also shares a rare distinction with his son, Ryan: both are winners of the prestigious Bob Feist Invitational (BFI).
Known for a tireless work ethic that saw him as a wrangler for movies, plastering houses and managing a Fresno vineyard to fund his passion, David’s resilience is unmatched. Even after a devastating 2018 wreck in Clovis that left him with 11 broken ribs, he returned to the arena just months later at Salinas.
Now 73, David remains a disciplined, driven athlete who saddles up and rides almost every day. Whether he is in Wickenburg for the winter, Salinas in July, or following the summer run through the Midwest, he is driven by a profound love for the sport and the lifelong friendships forged on the rodeo trail.
