Wyoming Official Travel Guide - 2017 Wyoming OTJ
The Rodeo: A True Wyoming Experience
2016-10-25 12:33:18
In Wyoming, it doesn’t take long to realize why they call it the Cowboy State. Just look at the Wrangler-clad residents, license plates and, of course, the most popular sport in the state: rodeo. Almost every town, big or small, hosts a rodeo of sorts throughout the summer where locals gather to engage in the revelry.
Maybe it’s the culture that surrounds it, or maybe it’s the history behind it, but rodeo is unlike any other sport. Nowhere else can you truly sop up the Wyoming way of life quite like this. With animated announcers and traditional cowboys and cowgirls, any evening at the arena will be a whirlwind of Western charm, skilled horsemanship and riotous entertainment.
Born in the days of cattle and cowboys in the Wild West, rodeo planted its seed in Western culture with groups of cowboys showing off their riding and roping talents, sometimes competing with neighboring outfits. Eventually these get-togethers moved into towns as organized “buckin’ shows” and became increasingly popular.
WY NOW?
Rodeos take place all over Wyoming, from Cheyenne and Cody to Gillette to Rock Springs. Go to p. 12 to see a list of popular rodeos and other exciting events around the state.
WY AM I HERE?
Members of Team Wyoming — the state’s professional cowboy and cowgirl program — offer tips and insight on rodeos.
“One of the biggest misconceptions about rodeo is the treatment of the animals. Many think that competitors don’t care for or have respect for the animals they compete on. The truth is, most competitors love animals — and if it wasn’t for the animals they compete on, there wouldn’t be a way to succeed in the sport. ”
— Tyler Willis of Wheatland a bull rider for 15 years
“If you’re a first-time rodeo viewer, make sure to pick a good one to watch like the Cody Stampede, Cheyenne Frontier Days or the Sheridan Elite Rodeo. They will make you a lifelong fan of our amazing sport!”
— Kanin Asay of Powell a bull rider for 15 years
“Be sure and get a program so you can follow along and read about the rules and objectives of each event. And don’t be afraid to talk to the cowboys and committee people; we always love visiting with fans and answering any questions they might have.”
— Chet Johnson of Sheridan a saddle bronc rider for 20 years
KNOW YOUR RODEO LINGO
A typical rodeo consists of seven main events: bareback riding, tie down roping, team roping, bull riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding and barrel racing. Here are some key terms to keep in mind:
A “pickup man” isn’t a guy looking for a date, but rather the horseback cowboy in the arena who “picks up” the bronc riders from their horses after a ride.
If someone says “dally” they aren’t telling you to lollygag around and take your time. Instead, “dally” refers to the action of wrapping the end of the rope around the saddle horn immediately after an animal is roped.
A “spinner” is a bull that circles around, spinning and whipping the rider in a flurry. More points are awarded for successful rides on “spinners” that go both left and right.
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