My husband and I recently attended the Douglas County Fair and Rodeo in Colorado.

As part of my next book, Natalie’s Cowboy, soon to be released, the hero is a “retired” saddle bronc rider. Here are some fun facts about rodeos:

Rodeos started with the Spanish in Mexico, not in the US. In 1551, a rodeo ordinance was established in Mexico to control cattle which were increasing and running amok.

The term “rodeo” had different meanings: a) the action of encircling cattle, b) the cattle site itself/where the cattle will be placed, and c) tamed cattle.

1869 – Historically the first rodeo held in the United States was in Deer Trail, CO. (Yay! Colorado)

1913 – Tillie Baldwin was the first woman bulldogger, but the feat never seemed to catch on. (Wow!)

1936 – The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) was established.

1948 – The Women’s Professional Rodeo Association which is based in Colorado Springs, CO was formed. It is open to all women over the age of eighteen.

The professional cowboys/cowgirls who perform at these rodeos stand for integrity, honesty, and sportsmanship.

Rodeo is the oldest and one of the most dangerous sports in America.

Bullfighters have the most dangerous job of distracting bulls away from fallen riders.

The largest outdoor rodeo can be found in Cheyenne, Wyoming, called “Cheyenne Frontier Days,” held in July.

Yeehaw!

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I’d like to leave you with this scripture. “May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you.” PS 25:21 (NIV)