The Oklahoma Hall of Fame at the Gaylord- Pickens Museum is honoring one of the state’s most celebrated rodeo champions with a dynamic new exhibit, “Picture Yourself Presents: Clarence LeBlanc, An Oklahoma Rodeo Legend.” Open now through January 31, 2026, this interactive experience chronicles the extraordinary life and career of Clarence LeBlanc – an Okmulgee native and the first Black steer wrestling world champion.
Located in the museum’s Picture Yourself Gallery, the exhibit offers a hands-on and multimedia experience designed to bring LeBlanc’s story to life. Visitors can explore historic photographs, videos, memorabilia and immersive displays that showcase his journey from humble Oklahoma roots to the national rodeo stage. The exhibit is also available online for those who want to explore his legacy virtually.
LeBlanc’s accomplishments are legendary. A three-time International Pro Rodeo Association world champion in steer wrestling, he broke racial barriers and became a symbol of perseverance and excellence in one of the most physically demanding rodeo events. His legacy is not only significant in the context of sports history but also in the broader narrative of African American achievement in Oklahoma and beyond.
The exhibit was created through a collaborative effort involving the Oklahoma Cowboys, the LeBlanc family and Oklahoma artist LaQuincey Reed, whose work adds a vibrant and personal touch to the storytelling. The result is a compelling tribute to a man who helped shape the face of modern rodeo.
The timing of the exhibit also coincides with another major celebration of LeBlanc’s legacy. This August, Okmulgee will host the 70th anniversary of the Roy LeBlanc Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo and Festival – the longest-running Black rodeo in the United States. Scheduled for the second weekend in August, the event is expected to draw thousands of visitors to Clarence LeBlanc’s hometown for a weekend of competition, culture and community pride.
The Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo honors Clarence’s father Roy LeBlanc, a rodeo icon in his own right, and has long been a cornerstone of African American cowboy heritage. This year’s milestone anniversary promises to be one of the biggest yet, featuring top-tier rodeo athletes, family-friendly entertainment and a celebration of Black rodeo history.
Together, the museum exhibit and the upcoming rodeo anniversary offer an unparalleled opportunity to celebrate the contributions of the LeBlanc family and their impact on Oklahoma’s cultural and sporting legacy.
Visitors are encouraged to make plans to experience the exhibit in person at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum in Oklahoma City and to mark their calendars for the 70th Roy LeBlanc Rodeo in August. Whether in the gallery or the arena, the story of Clarence LeBlanc continues to inspire and resonate with new generations.
— Exhibit Details
• Title: Picture Yourself Presents: Clarence LeBlanc, An Oklahoma Rodeo Legend
• Location: Oklahoma Hall of Fame at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum, Oklahoma City
• Open through January 31, 2026
• Virtual exhibit is also available
• More Information: www.oklahomahof. com — 70th Roy LeBlanc Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo & Festival • Date: Second weekend in August
• Location: Bob Arrington Arena at the Claude Cox Omniplex in Okmulgee -From the museum galleries to the rodeo arena, Oklahoma is proudly spotlighting a true legend. Don’t miss your chance to experience the story of Clarence LeBlanc – a champion, a pioneer and a symbol of Oklahoma excellence.
