Tio Kleberg and Buzz Thorp—two legendary figures in the ranching and livestock industries—will receive prestigious honors at Lubbock Memorial Civic Center in Lubbock, Texas.
The 46th Annual National Golden Spur Award Honors, celebrating the spirit of the American rancher and the enduring tradition of ranching, is set to take place on Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center in Lubbock, Texas.
This prestigious event is the pinnacle of recognition for the ranching and livestock industries. The night will honor the 46th National Golden Spur Award recipient Stephen J. “Tio” Kleberg of Kingsville, Texas, and the Ranching Heritage Association (RHA) Working Cowboy Award recipient Joe N. “Buzz” Thorp of Throckmorton, Texas.
Kleberg served as the vice president of agricultural operations for the legendary King Ranch from 1971-1998. He then served on the King Ranch, Inc. board of directors from 1998 until 2021. During his more than 50 years of service to King Ranch, Kleberg revitalized the American Quarter Horse breeding program, contributed to the development of the Santa Cruz breed of cattle and implemented sweeping wildlife conservation efforts.
Thorp is a revered cowboy who has worked on ranches from Tennessee to Montana and
New Mexico to Texas. Recognized as an outstanding stockman, horseman and teacher, at age 91, Thorp continues to be in demand to day-work on neighboring ranches, including the R.A. Brown Ranch.
"We are thrilled to honor these exceptional individuals who embody the heart and soul of the American ranching tradition," said Jim Bret Campbell, Executive Director of the Ranching Heritage Association and National Ranching Heritage Center. "Tio and Buzz epitomize the impact that leadership, skill and character have on the ranching and livestock industries.”
The evening will be hosted by professional announcer and host for The Cowboy Channel, Justin McKee. Fan-favorite Western singer and entertainer, Red Steagall, will interview the award recipients live on stage. Musical entertainment will be provided by Andy Hedges, featuring Maggie Rose Hedges, throughout the show with a selection of cowboy songs.
The Honors features a welcome reception that offers guests an opportunity to meet the honorees and mingle with some of the top figures in the ranching and livestock industries. A sit-down formal dinner and the awards show follow, honoring Kleberg and Thorp for their many contributions. Tickets are available to the public and start at $125 through the event website, goldenspurhonors.com.
Proceeds from the National Golden Spur Award Honors support the continuation of the awards and the preservation of ranching heritage and history through the Ranching Heritage Association, a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit. To learn more about the National Golden Spur Award Honors, the event schedule, and the award recipients, visit goldenspurhonors.com.
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