PIGGIN’ STRING PROS

Rodeo, the cowboy’s favorite competition, derives its roots from Spanish and Mexican cattle ranching of the 16th century. In fact, the origin of the term “rodeo” is Spanish, referring to the process of “rounding up” livestock. But the sport of it is pure American West. By the second half of the 19th century, Wild West shows like those staged by William “Buffalo Bill” Cody generated considerable audience enthusiasm for cowboy tricks on horseback. It also gave cowboys, seasonal laborers during the late 1800s once fencing made its way through cattle country, a way to exhibit their skills. Competitive awards naturally followed. In fact, one of the first rodeos on record to award prizes – the Pecos Rodeo – kickstarted a tradition that continues today.

The West of the Pecos Rodeo, the annual competitive event that takes place at the Buck Jackson Arena in Pecos, is a state-wide draw for rodeo enthusiasts. Competitors pit skills in team roping, calf roping, steer wrestling, and barrel racing. The rodeo also features more unconventional competitions designed for fun including the Boot Scramble, a kids’ Calf Scramble, a Wild Mare Race, and a Wild Cow Milking. Outside the arena, attendees enjoy a Rodeo Parade, an Old Timer’s Reunion, and the local county sheriff department’s BBQ.