Pete Knight: The Cowboy King

Rumors and myths abound about this bronc-riding legend of a man, and as time goes by the stories have evolved to the point where it can be hard to tell truth from fiction. Some say Pete Knight's last ride was on his greatest nemesis, a horse called Midnight. People have asserted this is the reason Doug Stephens created the duo's painting in 1955. Others are sure he was riding the Strawberry Roan, a horse featured in one of country singer Wilf Carter's many songs about the rodeo. While memories of Pete were immortalized by both these artists, neither of the rumors is true. His great-nephew, Darrell Knight, knows the truth and in the tribute to his famous uncle, he dispels the falsehoods and shares a never before seen glimpse into the life of "The Cowboy King." Pete Knight competed on three continents and was the North American Champion, World Champion, Dempsey Trophy winner, and three time winner of the Prince of Wales Cup the latter only being awarded to the rider who also won the Canadian Championship three times. He was more than a cowboy. He was a gentleman, friend, loving husband, and for a brief time, a father. Among peers, friends, family and even those who only met him in passing, Pete was highly respected and well liked. His life and the rodeo were completely entwined from his first official recognition, July 11, 1924 until his death on May 23, 1937. He died as he lived for the ride.