EVENTS
Rodeo Entertainer
Rodeo Trick Roper
The best-known trick roper since Will Rogers, Montie Montana entered the arena for the first time at Miles City in 1925. Born Owen H. Mickel in 1910 at Wolf Point, Montana, he grew up in the business. His parents were ranchers and “show people” who traveled the rodeo and fair circuit. Young Montie did rope tricks as part of the family act.
In 1930 famed trick roper Gordon Jones hired Montie Montana for a European tour. For more than sixty years Montana has performed, produced shows, and endeared himself to generations of rodeo fans. On his trademark black-and-white pinto, Rex, Montana was featured in rodeos and parades across America. His most dazzling trick consisted of roping four horses and riders at once. He holds a world’s record for once capturing 11 mounted riders in a single loop.
Acting came naturally to Montie Montana. During the 1930s and 1940s he appeared in western movies starring Tom Mix, Gene Autry, Hoot Gibson, Roy Rogers, and Hopalong Cassidy. He continued to make limited appearances until his death in 1998.
