I witnessed something really special a couple of weeks ago (Saturday July, 17) at the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs—the Induction Ceremony for the "class" of 2010. This event was about as heartfelt and genuine as you can imagine. To see these cowboys get honored by their peers was almost like sitting in on a private family affair. Tears and laughter rang out with every speech.
The June/July issue (on newsstands now), has a photo essay by photographer Chad Case on the colorful subject of charreada, which has been called the National Sport of Mexico. A form of stylized rodeo or riding exhibition, including roping and equestrian performances, charreada is based on the heritage of charros, or gentlemen ranchers.
The Angola Prison Rodeo at Lousiana State Penitentiary has been held since 1964 and is the last of its kind in the nation. Despite controversy over the cost and efficacy of the event, the hard-nosed warden believes rodeo helps rehabilitate his inmates.
The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo has announced the retirement of W. R. “Bob” Watt, Jr. In honor of Watt’s more than 40 years of service to the organization, Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief will host a public ceremony proclaiming May 4th, 2010 as W.R. “Bob” Watt, Jr. Day in the City of Fort Worth. (See details below).
Were any of you in the building when Chad Masters and heeler Jade Corkill broke the world record for team roping last Friday (12/11)? I was there, and my ears are still ringing from the roar of the crowd.