The 45th Annual National Golden Spur Award Honors, celebrating the spirit of the American rancher and the enduring tradition of ranching, is set for Nov. 3 in Lubbock.

This prestigious event is the pinnacle of recognition for the ranching and livestock industries, spotlighting those who forge ahead in continuing the incredible story of ranching.

The night will be illuminated by the presence of the National Golden Spur Award honoree Craig Haythorn of Arthur, Nebraska, and the Ranching Heritage Association Working Cowboy Award recipient Jimbo Humphreys of Dickens, Texas.

Haythorn is the fourth generation of Haythorns to own and operate Haythorn Land and Cattle Co. after his great-grandfather immigrated from England as a 16-year-old stowaway on a ship headed to America. After being discovered by the captain, the young Englishman earned his passage by caring for a load of Hereford bulls being shipped from England to Texas. Later he went to work for the Texas rancher who owned the bulls.

Humphreys has pursued cowboy life from various directions—making a living by punching cows, cooking on chuckwagons, training horses, building fences and corrals, crafting bits and spurs, and now, managing a large cow-calf operation on the Guitar Ranches.

“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.

The event, which will be held at the Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences in Lubbock, will feature host for The Cowboy Channel Justin McKee, Western singer and entertainer Red Steagall and CMA Award Winner Trent Willmon. Singer Cody Johnson will no longer be able to perform for the ceremony. Ceremony officials understand guests may be disappointed not to hear Johnson in person, so refunds will be available. Contact boxoffice@buddyhollyhall.com or call (806) 792-8339 for the refunds.

Proceeds from the National Golden Spur Award Honors will go toward the preservation of ranching heritage and history.

Tickets range from $150 to $400. All tickets include access to the National Golden Spur Award Honors Pre-Show Reception and the Awards Show. Select tickets also grant access to the Cattleman’s Club VIP Dining, a unique culinary experience with exclusively themed food stations and beverages.

To learn more about the National Golden Spur Award Honors and to purchase tickets, visit goldenspurhonors.com.

 

*Story was updated on Oct. 31 to reflect changes in the entertainment lineup.