MEDORA, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Our series of stories on North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Inductees wraps up this week just before the class of 2022 Honorees are recognized on Saturday, June 18th in Medora.

One of the honorees is a ranch near Sheldon, N.D. owned by Dave and Kim Utke. The family raises Appaloosa horses. Kim Utke said a horse judge recently visited their ranch and had this compliment about their horses.

The late Fred Kist will be enter the pre-1970’s Rodeo category. His son, Jerry Kist, the owner of Kist Livestock, talked about his father and the companies upcoming 80th anniversary.

And Jim Chamley will receive the Legacy Award. Jim made countless contributions as a trustee and board member.

Dave Hermanson of Mandan will be entering the Leaders of Ranch and Rodeo category. He captured the North Dakota Rodeo Association title back to back 54 years ago.

He and his former partner, the late Fred Kist will both be inducted in the Class of 2022. Hermanson also raises Quarter Horses.

Dave is the brother of Darrell Hermanson who was induced into the Modern-era rodeo category back in 2019. Darrell grew up on a farm near Litchville, ND.

Another honoree is a famous barrel racing horse called “Rootie/Dasher Dude” born and raised in North Dakota. Owner Britany Fleck Diaz said they purchased the horse for the bargain price of $800 when she was young. Her net worth increased dramatically with a series of accomplishments.

The late, Thore Naaden will be induced into the pre-1940’s category. His granddaughter Connie Sprynczynatyk said her grandfather, an immigrant from Norway excelled in the ranching business in North Dakota.

Other honorees entering the Class of 2022 include, Mark Kuhn and Tom Needham in the Modern Era Rodeo, Vernon Goldsberry (Deceased) in the Modern Era Ranching and Ray Erhardt (Deceased) in the Western Arts & Entertainment category.

The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame ceremony will be held Saturday, June 18th on the Tjaden Terrance in Medora at 1pm Mountain Time. The event is free and open to the public. The KOVC broadcast is sponsored by Dick Nelson Sales and Leasing and Valley Meat Supply of Valley City.