Yes indeed, we do live in the wild west where no self respecting town is without its summer Rodeo! And we have Rodeos galore in Washington State. These Rodeos are not just for fun and sport. They showcase the hardworking REAL ranchers out here who do this for a living. These cowboys and cowgirls are the real deal. They live on and work on real ranches where they breed horses, raise cattle, ride the range, rope calves and steers, take their cattle to summer pasture and then down to winter pasture. They endure blistering summer heat of 102° and winter with temps in the -20° or more. They train their own horses to be cattle horses. These ranchers worry about their cattle and horses during times of drought and even worse…..the dreaded fire season which in 2015 engulfed hundreds of thousands of acres of free range land here in Washington. These ranchers spend their nights during calving season out in the pastures helping out during births. They keep a sharp eye out for wolf predation which is a serious problem. So…Rodeo season is a chance for these ranchers and professional Rodeo riders to showcase their talents. Blow off some steam. Socialize with their friends and extended families and show the rest of the world what it is like to raise the food we all eat. So, how ’bout those cowgirls/cowboys? Giddy up!
Dan and I went to the Colville Rodeo last Saturday and had a grand ol’ time. I think I’m going to let these photos speak for themselves. And when you are grillin’ those burgers on the 4th of July, please take a moment to thank these Ranchers!
The Grandstand early on. 20 minutes before the Rodeo started it was standing room only!
Pony rides for the kids. Start ’em young!
The kids LOVED the mechanical bull! The speed was tailored to the age of the rider. This young man did really well. Got that whole arm thing going!
How ’bout those Cow Girls? The Rodeo Queen and the Princesses were outstanding in their riding skills!
Warming up the steeds.
The Ferry County crew. They sure had that queenly wave down pat!
Let’s hear it for the good ol’ US of A!
Let the games begin! Bronco busting. Holy Smokes!
I’d be dead. I know I’d be dead!
Such an adrenaline rush…….for them. Me? wimper, wimper, wimper.
Again and again and again……..Holy smokes!
When the horses are done, this guy goes out and brings them safely back to the corral.
Another photo because…….oh my! Is he not just drop dead handsome? Be still my heart 😉
Double team Steer roping! Go get ’em!
Ye Haw!
Equestrian Drill Team with true American Spirit!
Of course there is the RODEO Clown! Not just for entertainment. They serve to distract the Bulls and Horses and more from any rider that has fallen until they can be rescued.
Think I will leave you with a laugh. Look at these little stinkers! Thank you Colville Rodeo! See ya next year!
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