Justin McKee: 2024 Ted Wiese Memorial Award Recipient

Justin McKee accepts a Montana Silversmith buckle recognizing the Ted Wiese Memorial Award from WSF Executive Director Aubrey O'Quin at the 2024 WSF Bootlegger Ball. Photo by Kaycie Timm

In the Western industry, most people recognize Justin McKee as a seasoned rodeo announcer and beloved Cowboy Channel personality. But for those who have interacted with him personally, McKee is known as a source of light who consistently supports those around him by sharing his passion for Western sports and, above all, his faith.

According to McKee, he didn't gain that reputation by himself. In fact, he credits his strong character to one man in particular—Ted Wiese.

“Ted was one of the most impactful individuals of my life,” McKee reveals. “He was a giant in our world in terms of his boldness. I respect that a lot. He’s the guy that gave me most of my inspiration to be bold in this walk and in my influence for the Kingdom.”

Family Ties

McKee’s introduction to the Wiese family, including Ted and his wife, Linda, came at the National High School Finals while McKee was still in college.

“I was passing through and wanted to meet a couple of the announcers, as I was just beginning my announcing career,” McKee recalls. “Along the way, I found out about Ted, Linda, and their ministry at the National High School Finals Rodeo. They were special.”

During that event, McKee got a front-row seat to watch Ted and Linda at work when a young bull rider was injured in competition.

“The way that they approach the situation as leaders, as fearless warriors, as compassionate servants of God, to minister to that family and to the kids was monumental,” McKee shares. “As I watched them move and work, I saw the passion that they had for our Lord and for people. I've said that [Ted and Linda] had the greatest impact in the history of Western sports for the kingdom of God, and I stand by that.”

From that moment on, McKee and his family maintained a close relationship with the Wieses.

Ted and Linda Wiese at their Cowboy Bistro. Photo courtesy of Linda Wiese. 

“Some of my family's greatest memories were at Cheyenne and Pendleton at the Weises’ Bistro,” McKee shares. “Not just enjoying their kindness, food, and hospitality—which was amazing—but watching them dish out plates, love, advice, and encouragement. They wrapped their arms around people physically, emotionally, and spiritually, all day, every day. They were willing to get down on their hands and knees and serve you in any capacity that you needed at the time.”

A meaningful Honor

Earlier this year, when McKee learned he had been selected to receive the 2024 Ted Wiese Memorial Award, he was overcome with emotion as memories of Ted flooded his heart and mind.

“When I got the call from the Western Sports Foundation about this award, I was overwhelmed,” McKee recalls. “We all have heroes that we look up to, and there have been a handful of men in my life that I've looked up to in this high degree. But Ted is the man that I really wanted to be like.”

Justin McKee and his supporters joined by Linda Wiese and her family at the 2024 WSF Bootlegger Ball. Photo by Kaycie Timm

McKee also found significance in the award being presented by WSF, an organization that shares his values.

“Western Sports Foundation is a group that I'm very attracted to because they are making a difference in my world, my culture, for the people that need it the most,” McKee said. “This is a great group with a big heart, and in my opinion, a strong vision that is bringing resources to help people.”

About the Ted Wiese Memorial Award

Ted Wiese was a man of faith, family and generosity. He spent his life giving back to the sport he loved by sharing his faith and wisdom along the rodeo road. Many called him a mentor, but even more called him a friend. The Ted Wiese Memorial Award is presented annually to an individual who personifies the qualities that Ted led by and who embodies a community-focused desire to feed the soul of rodeo and western life.

Ted Wiese spent his life giving back to the sport he loved. Photo courtesy of Linda Wiese

Justin McKee reflects on the honor of receiving the 2024 WSF Ted Wiese Memorial Award.