Kenneth Lance, born March 4, 1928, in Earlsboro, Oklahoma, traveled the world as a trick roper, rodeo promoter and all-around cowboy.

Being raised on a ranch, he worked side-by-side with his father learning the fortitude which later served him in life.

Ken started his career early, going from high school to the rodeo circuit as a trick roping performer and competitor in calf and team roping events. Lance was one of the most visible participants in rodeo, crisscrossing the nation starting in 1945.

Lance was determined to not let the Ada area rodeo die so in 1955 he took what was no more than a watermelon patch and built his “field of dreams.” He opened the Ken Lance Sports Arena near Ada, Oklahoma, and hosted rodeos for more than 30 years.

Kenneth was a dedicated constituent to rodeo entertainment. This drive and determination helped the Ada rodeo grow to be the third largest in the United States.

Upon retiring, he went to work for the Chickasaw Nation, promoting its events, culture and history. He died in 2006.