(WNY News Now) – GERRY – Rodeo enthusiasts nationwide are mourning the unexpected death of Patrick Gottsch, the 70-year-old founder of the Rural Media Group. Gottsch, who spearheaded the launch of the Cowboy Channel, the Cowgirl Channel, RFD-TV, and the Sirius XM Rural Radio Channel, passed away shortly after attending the Women’s Rodeo World Championships and the Professional Bull Rider World Championships in Fort Worth, Texas.
Gottsch’s journey began 35 years ago with a vision to highlight the lifestyle and values of rural America through the RFD-TV network. His ambition to create a dedicated rodeo network materialized in 2017, bringing hundreds of rodeos to over 44 million homes nationwide. This expansive reach includes smaller rodeos, such as the annual Gerry Rodeo in Gerry, New York.
Tom Atwell, chairman of the Gerry Rodeo, emphasized the profound impact of Gottsch’s contributions on the sport’s popularity and accessibility. “Gottsch’s efforts have not only spread the appeal of rodeo but also enhanced the fan experience here in Gerry with replays and close-ups on our large video board during performances,” Atwell said.
Gottsch’s two daughters, Raquel and Gatsby, who are actively involved in the Rural Media Group’s operations, have assured fans that their father’s mission will continue. “Our father’s dedication to rural America and rodeo remains strong, and we are committed to honoring his legacy,” they stated.
Atwell fondly recalled meeting Gottsch at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, where he had the chance to personally thank him for promoting smaller rodeos like Gerry’s. “He seemed genuinely pleased and surprised by my gratitude,” Atwell noted.
The Gerry Fire Department is eagerly preparing for its 79th consecutive professional rodeo, scheduled for July 31 through August 3. The event will feature over 200 professional cowboys and cowgirls competing for $50,000 in prize money. For more details, visit www.gerryrodeo.org or call (716) 985-4847.
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