Every year the Rowell Ranch Advisory Committee honors one of its members with the “Top Hand” Award. In 1978, a group of local businessmen, ranchers, professionals and rodeo enthusiasts came together to form the Rowell Ranch Advisory Committee.

Guided by the Rowell Ranch Rodeo Board of Directors, this group works to produce and promote the Annual Rowell Ranch Pro Rodeo, as a tribute to its founders, the late Harry and Maggie Rowell.

Outstanding character, active participation and dedication to the Rowell Ranch Pro Rodeo are all qualities which qualify the honored member for this award.  Chris is an over due recipient for this honor.

Chris Peterson has been involved with the Rowell Ranch Rodeo as a volunteer and as a committee member since 1989.

Chris has worked for H.A.R.D. for 19 years, and when repairs are needed at the rodeo grounds, he gets it from both ends.  Like last year...it was "Hey Chris, we need a wash rack put in."  Two days later, which happened to be two days before the rodeo, we had a wash rack.

Chris has also been involved with the Rowell Ranch Chili booth for a number of years.  You may remember him dressed as a hillbilly, and at last year's booth as the Sheriff.

Each and every time someone needs help, he is always there to pitch in.  Chris is our "Git-R-Done" guy.  We really appreciate everything he does.

Chris, his wife, Kathleen, and his children live in Castro Valley.  He enjoys all outdoor sports, especially the rodeo and ranching.

The love of rodeo has kept him involved with Rowell Ranch Rodeo.  Thank you Chris.  All of us at Rowell's appreciate all that you do.

Congratulations Chris and THANK YOU for all you do.  It is because of your character and dedication we as the rodeo family are able to provide an American Rodeo experience for past and future generations to come.