Carroll McKay was raised in Wheeler County, Nebraska, northwest of Spalding. Carroll served in the U.S. Navy in World War II. He was also a Brand Inspector for Nebraska Brand Committee from 1947 to 1972.
Carroll rode in his first rodeo in 1944 and was a contestant, judge, arena director and helped produce many rodeos from the late 1940’s to the present time.
Carroll served as First Membership and was elected President of Mid-States Rodeo Association in 1975 and 1976. He also helped establish the present rodeo arena in O’Neill in the 1970’s.
Carroll is still involved with promotion and sponsoring rodeos.