Over the roarin' of the crowd And the anthem playin' loud Openin' ceremonies bring the flag flyin' high. Our heroes are nearby. The dust and the heat and the summer sun, Beyond the golden buckles and purses won Stands tribute to what they'd once begun. Our heroes are nearby. The boots and chaps and faded jeans Reincarnate legendary scenes, So long as their rodeo events don't die Our heroes are nearby. In every young cowboy there lies the spirit Of ane age old spark just rarin' to be lit, And shine upon those who created it- Our heroes from days gone by. They ride and rope in the shadows These ghosts of the rodeo For some claim to see 'em But we all know, our heroes are nearby. In every eight seconds and timed event For their young protege's it was meant. The pride that's echoed is heaven sent. Can you see 'em? Our heroes are nearby. Written for all the great rodeo heroes Be they retired or passed on From small country fairs to the National Finals, May their memories live on