Grand Marshals
Welcome to the Grand Marshals page for the Riggins Rodeo - where we honor the individuals who embody the spirit, heritage, and heart of our community. Each year, we proudly recognize those who have made lasting contributions to the traditions of rodeo, western culture, and the life of Riggins. Our Grand Marshals are more than honored guests, they are storytellers, trailblazers, and stewards of a way of life that continues to shape our community.
From lifelong ranchers to to dedicated volunteers and community leaders, each Grand Marshal represents the grit, generosity, and pride that define the Riggins Rodeo. As you learn more about this year’s honorees, we invite you to celebrate their journeys, their impact, and the legacy they carry forward into the arena and beyond.
2026 Grand Marshals - Karen & Dennis Sawyer
Karen and Dennis Sawyer from Pollock, Idaho are both native Idahoans. Karen grew up spending most of her summers in Riggins, as she is a 5th generation Salmon River kid. She has spent the first weekend in May in Riggins most of her life cheering on family and friends at the Riggins Rodeo. She could be found there come rain or shine. Karen’s Uncle Bud Smith taught her to ride a horse at a young age in this arena. She has practiced those skills throughout her life riding the trail of Idaho, often times leading a pack animal. Even riding a horse to an upper meadow to get married 33 years ago to Dennis Sawyer. Karen has always dreamt of living I the Salmon River Canyon full time. And that dream came true in 2000. She is proud to be an active member of the Salmon River Cowboys Association and an officer in the Riggins American Legion Post.
Dennis grew up on a small farm/ranch in Southern Idaho. His father ran a string of mules and horses. In his youth, Dennis spent many summers packing fishermen into remote areas of Idaho, Northern Nevada and the Sierra’s along the Nevada-California border. As a couple Karen and Dennis have spent endless days riding and packing in the back country of Central Idaho. Dennis has served as President of the Salmon River Cowboys Association and remains an active member.
Karen and Dennis love where they live and enjoy sharing the Salmon River Life with family and friends that come to visit. They would like to say Thank You for the Honor of being the 2026 Riggins Rodeo Grand Marshals.