Helen Donaldson: Not Her First Rodeo, But Her Last

A Legacy of Leadership and Love for the Rodeo

After nearly three decades at the helm of the Destin Fishing Rodeo, one of Destin’s oldest traditions, Helen Donaldson is preparing to step down as executive director. Her long tenure has been marked by dedication, hard work, and a deep love for the event that brings thousands of anglers to the area each year.

Donaldson’s office, filled with boxes of T-shirts and walls covered in photos and newspaper clippings from past events, serves as a testament to her time with the Rodeo. She often says, “This ain’t my first Rodeo, but it is my last.” She will continue working through this year’s event and until the end of August 2026, when she will hand over the reins to Amber Helton.

Helton, who has been closely involved with the Rodeo for years, has served as Miss Destin in 2005 and as chair of the board of directors in 2023. She has even stepped in as weighmaster on occasion. Donaldson believes Helton is the perfect fit for the role, noting that she has the energy and passion that Donaldson no longer has.

From Volunteer to Leader

Donaldson’s journey with the Rodeo began not as a professional, but as a volunteer. She recalls how, when she took the job as executive director, her first day was just a few days after the previous director’s last day. She had no idea what to expect and admits she made things up as she went along.

Despite the challenges, she found herself deeply connected to the Rodeo. She credits the board of directors for guiding her decisions, but emphasized that the day-to-day operations were all hers. The Rodeo isn’t just an October event—it’s a year-round commitment involving bookkeeping, ordering merchandise, creating guidebooks, and organizing the Miss Destin pageant.

Before joining the Rodeo, Donaldson worked with the Destin Chamber of Commerce. She became interested in the Rodeo through her mother, who had been a volunteer judge. When the opportunity to become executive director arose, it felt like a natural next step.

Growth and Challenges

When Donaldson took over, the Rodeo had around 60 charter boats and 100 private boats. Over the years, the number of participants has grown significantly. Private boats have increased from 170 to as many as 300, and the Rodeo now attracts anglers from 37 states across the country.

The event has also weathered major challenges, including hurricanes, the BP oil spill, and the pandemic. Despite these obstacles, the Rodeo has not only survived but thrived. Donaldson jokes that she may have created a "monster" in the form of the popular Rodeo T-shirts, which have evolved from simple white and gray designs to a wide range of colors and styles.

Memorable Moments

Over the years, Donaldson has collected countless memories. Halloween at the Rodeo has always been a highlight, with volunteers and participants embracing the spirit of the season. She fondly remembers Ham Palmgren, a devoted volunteer known for his creative costumes.

She also recalls the massive fish caught over the years, such as the 844-pound shark brought in by the boat Twilight. These moments, along with the annual photos of her grandson Reef with weighmaster Bruce Cheves, are part of the rich history she has helped build.

Donaldson’s family has been deeply involved in the Rodeo. Her granddaughter Maggie participated in the Rodeo Wagon Parade, and her husband has supported her throughout the years. Even their home has been a part of the Rodeo’s story, with offices moving between trolleys, houseboats, and various buildings over the years.

A New Chapter

As she prepares for retirement, Donaldson admits she will miss the Rodeo, especially the volunteers and the sense of community. However, she is looking forward to spending more time with her husband and exploring new adventures. She plans to travel, attend Saints games, and enjoy some quiet fishing in Wyoming or Montana.

Donaldson’s legacy will live on through Helton, who has grown up alongside the Rodeo. Helton credits Donaldson for mentoring her and believes the Rodeo will continue to thrive under her leadership.

As the Rodeo moves into its next chapter, it remains a cherished tradition in Destin, thanks to the dedication of those who have shaped its history.