AUSTIN (KXAN) — A Brooklyn-based group known as Ryan, which was created "by Ryans, for Ryans," will attempt to break a world record at its first-ever "Ryan Rodeo" in Austin this Saturday.
The group, which is comprised of members named "Ryan" (or a phonetic equivalent), has invited Ryans of all ages to unite in pursuit of an ambitious goal — dethroning the "Ivans" who currently hold the Guinness World Record for the largest same-name gathering.
"It’s fixin’ to be a rip-roarin' time, as we gather round and revel in the beauty of our shared name. Don’t be surprised if some Ryans start square dancin’ — after all, you can’t spell country without R-Y," the organizers said of the Ryan Rodeo.
The event is scheduled for Feb. 24 at 5 p.m. at Buck Wild, a venue and bar on Sixth Street. All ages and genders are invited, though organizers indicated they will be checking ID for proof that attendees are named "Ryan."
"We’ll be layin’ down the law to ensure no Bryans get in," the organizers said.
In addition to mingling with other Ryans, guests at Saturday's event will be treated to music from local artist Ryan Hunter. There's also plans for a bull-riding competition, with the winner receiving a "special prize with their name on it."
The current Guinness World Record for the largest same-name gathering was set in July 2017, when 2,325 Ivans gathered in Kupres, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Despite the impressive "Ivan" turnout (and the fact that Buck Wild is a much smaller venue than a large field in Kupres), the organizers at Ryan appear confident about their chances.
"We're coming for you, Ivan," the group said.
Ryan, which conducts its gatherings via the social-media platform Meetup, boasts over 4,600 Meetup members in at least 48 countries, the group once touted on Instagram. In 2023, Ryan also hosted seven gatherings, including a Rytoberfest in Brooklyn and a Ryan Rave in Los Angeles.
