But it IS my first rodeo

Have you heard that expression before, “This isn’t my first rodeo ya’ know.” People use it when they are talking about doing a particular something before. Maybe it’s a Western U.S. thing.

I have lived in the Western U.S. my whole entire life. I have spent time in every western state, and lived in 5 of them. You would think that I would have gone to a rodeo somewhere in all those years. But no. This past Friday night was my very first time going to a rodeo. I completely surprised Al when I told him I wanted to go to the Jackson Hole rodeo, that I thought it would be fantastic for photos. (And yes, this was a 300 photo event)

I have always thought that rodeos were mean to the animals, and I didn’t want to see that stuff. Al has been to many rodeos, his boys did junior rodeo when they were teens, and he has always told me it’s not what I thought. He’s told me those bulls, and horses are worth BIG money and they are going to make sure they are pampered, not abused. I have to say, he was right. This is just a small local rodeo, but none of the animals looked like they were having a horrible time.

And the kids were all having a blast.

We got there kinda early and they were doing some of the roping events. Ya, talk about smart, trained, awesome horses.

It was so much fun to watch. And I was able to get some great behind the scenes shots too.

I’m pretty uneasy taking photos of people, but this was different for me. Everyone was so relaxed and friendly. And photogenic.

 

Shooting into the sun gave this photo a cool affect.

Then the rodeo started. These two adorable girls where in charge of the flags during the national anthem.

Then it was action time.

This little dude was 5 years old. The mini bull he was on pretty much just walked out of the chute. But the bull fighter guys were right there close, making sure he was OK.

There were saddle broncs too.

And barrel racing.

Future rodeo queens.

Would I go to another rodeo? Yep. I had a great time, and the photo op’s were awesome. Plus, watching what was going on behind the scenes made me see that this is a great thing for kids and teens. These kids are working, and doing something they love. They are learning responsibility, instead of sitting at a computer or playing video games.

There’s nothing wrong with that.