Barbara Inez “Tad” Barnes Lucas (1902-1990)

Rodeo Champion, Cowgirl. Often called "Rodeo's First Lady," she began her professional career as a cowgirl in 1922, eventually competing worldwide, and won countless trophies for trick riding. Although women's contests were dropped from the major rodeo circuit during World War II, Tad Lucas remained active as performer and official. She is the only person honored by all three rodeo halls of fame: the National Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1967 (the first woman elected), the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame in 1978, and the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1979. She is considered the greatest rodeo cowgirl of all time. In her will she established the Tad Lucas Memorial Award to honor women who excel in any field related to Western heritage.

Bio by: Kyle Sutton