THE BEST OF SUMMER RODEOS

WITH EVERYTHING FROM THE RICHEST SUMMER RODEO TO THE OLDEST, WE ARE GOING TO COVER THEM ALL IN THIS SERIES OF COWBOY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE. DID YOUR FAVORITE MAKE THE LIST?

In this summer issue of Cowboy Lifestyle Magazine, we are celebrating rodeo being the true American sport. Stemming from the original working-class cowboys, rodeo has the power to not only bring people together but continually celebrate American values like grit, determination, and hard work.

Summer is about the middle of the season for cowboys and cowgirls that are competing for a spot at the National Finals Rodeo in December. The “summer run” is a huge opportunity to gain some ground in the standings, in addition to making good money depending on how they plan their route. Some athletes plan their route based on where they are geographically, such as the west coast, midwest, southwest, or even Northern rodeos; or they plan strategically where they can get the most bang for their buck. For about two months straight it’s not uncommon for cowboys and cowgirls to be on the road heading to a rodeo every weekend.

Particularly, the two weeks before and the weekend of the Fourth of July, is what we like to call “Cowboy Christmas”. Over the course of that couple weeks, there are over 30 rodeos that take place across the country, and it isn’t just the cowboys and cowgirls competing. The rodeos themselves are all vying to get athletes to compete in their events. With at least 2-3 other events going on at the same time, rodeos need to either put up a good amount of added money or treat their athletes really well to make it worth their time.

Whether it’s your first rodeo or your 30th, the excitement never changes. There’s something in the way the dust settles in the arena as the athletes and animals get geared up for an outstanding performance. The way the bucking horses wait patiently in the chutes as the National Anthem plays and the way we still say a prayer to protect everyone inside and outside the arena.

It’s the quiet buzz of energy as the crowds get ready to sit on the edge of their seats as they are transported back in time. Young or old, fans come away with an appreciation for this quintessential American sport that is a staple of this country’s heritage and culture. Today, rodeo continues to captivate audiences across the country, drawing in both locals and tourists alike.

But rodeo is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life. For many Americans, rodeo represents a connection to their heritage and a celebration of their roots. It’s a chance to come together as a community and honor the traditions that have been passed down through generations. In fact, that truly is the common denominator, whether you’re a spectator, athlete, stock contractor, or committee member, the values of the sport remain the same. That is the common thread and understanding that we all live by.

As we highlight different summer rodeos between these pages and what they are known for, keep in mind that rodeos across the country are all known for something extraordinary and I encourage you to find the magic of your own hometown rodeo.