Teton Ridge has acquired The Cowboy Channel, The Cowgirl Channel, and Cowboy Channel+ from Rural Media Group, cementing its position as the largest rights holder in Western sports. This acquisition includes an exclusive licensing agreement with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), granting coverage of over 600 sanctioned rodeos, including marquee events like the National Finals Rodeo.
Launched in 2017 by the late Patrick Gottsch’s Rural Media Group, The Cowboy Channel quickly became a prominent platform for live rodeo broadcasts, reaching tens of millions. Now, the network, alongside its sister channel, reaches over 100 million viewers annually. Raquel Gottsch Koehler, co-owner of Rural Media Group, expressed confidence in Teton Ridge’s ability to preserve and expand the channel’s legacy, saying, “We pass the torch to a team that shares our deep passion for rodeo and Western sports.”
Teton Ridge aims to grow the Western sports audience through innovative storytelling and expanded distribution across traditional and digital media. CEO Deirdre Lester emphasized the company’s commitment to honoring rodeo traditions while elevating ProRodeo’s visibility to match other professional sports. The Cowboy Channel’s existing agreements with major providers such as Dish, DirecTV, and Comcast, combined with Teton Ridge’s partnerships with Fox and DAZN, promise to bring Western sports into more homes.
Since its founding in 2019 by Thomas Tull and Mark Walter, Teton Ridge has focused on promoting Western culture. With ventures such as The American Rodeo Contender Series and original productions like Window to the West, the company continues to shape the future of Western storytelling. “This is a defining moment,” said Lester. “We are committed to growing Western sports for generations to come.”
Rural Media Group will retain ownership of RFD-TV, RFD-TV NOW, Rural Radio, and FarmHer and RanchHer programs, continuing its 25-year legacy in rural and agricultural content.
