HERITAGE RIDING HIGH SILVER SPURS RODEO The word rodeo was derived from the Spanish term for “round up,” rodear. Spanish explorers brought cattle to Florida 400 years ago and ever since, “cowmen” in the area have been rounding them up. It’s no wonder that a full-on rodeo was born in Florida, the state with the longest ranching history in the United States, and in Osceola County no less—a place where agriculture predates attractions and where abundant pastures, groves, and wetlands have given rise to a vibrant community of land-lovers. Kissimmee’s Silver Spurs Riding Club began in 1941 to promote horsemanship and fellowship. These eastern cowboys created their take on a western tradition in 1944 with the very first Silver Spurs Rodeo, an event that is still the largest rodeo east of the Mississippi River. You can experience family-favorite events like bull riding, bronc riding, team roping, and barrel racing, all in a state-of-the-art arena. With the help of families whose heritage is home-grown, the Silver Spurs Rodeo has created a reputation for quality entertainment for thousands of fans, young and old. AT THE YEE HAW! TOP RODEO EVENTS SILVER SPURS ARENA Watch some of the biggest names in the business compete at these rodeos. AT THE Silver Spurs Rodeo RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo Silver Spurs Rodeo ExperienceKissimmee.com FEBRUARY APRIL JUNE 63