Roots N’ Boots rodeo in Queen Creek get new event manager

The annual Roots N’ Boots Queen Creek rodeo has a new general manager.

The board of directors for Friends of Horseshoe Park has named Kaeden Peterson as the new general manager.

“As Roots N’ Boots Queen Creek continues to grow, the board of directors determined the event has become too large for one individual to effectively manage both the nonprofit responsibilities and the expanding demands of Roots N’ Boots Queen Creek,” stated Jon Wootten, president of Friends of Horseshoe Park, in a press release.

Peterson has been a Friends of Horseshoe Park director since 2024 and as general manager he will handle all aspects of the rodeo.

"I’m honored to take on this new role and excited for the future of Roots N’ Boots Queen Creek,” Peterson stated in the release. “I look forward to working with the board and committee members to produce an event that exemplifies the rural heritage of our community.”

Additionally, the board selected Ed Musgraves to assist Peterson with event oversight, primarily focusing on operations within the main arena, the press release continued. 

“While FOHP remains fully committed to supporting Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Centre and the Western lifestyle in Queen Creek, the size and scope of this event now require more focused leadership,” Wooten stated. “We believe this change will bring new energy and clarity to the event and allow Roots N’ Boots Queen Creek to continue growing and elevating to its fullest potential.”

Wootten will continue as president of Friends of Horseshoe Park, focusing on the nonprofit’s responsibilities and ongoing support of Horseshoe Park.

The 2026 Roots N’ Boots Queen Creek event will be held March 17-22 at the Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Centre, 20464 E. Riggs Road. Tickets for the PRCA rodeo performances are now on sale. Full event details are available at rootsnboots.org/.