This Ain't My First Rodeo
I've said or heard this saying many times, "This Ain't My First Rodeo" well, this is my first rodeo. We didn't know what to expect. We put on sunscreen and headed to the event with it being sunny and hot. Surprisingly, the stadium was covered and had "Big Ass Fans" around the perimeter. We had great seats, and it was comfortable inside the arena.
FujiFilm H2s Fujifilm 50-140 F2.8
The pre-event started with mutton bustin'. These 4-6 year-olds hopped on and tried to hang on as long as possible. As the crowd cheered, most didn't last long, but one made it the longest and won $50.00.
FujiFilm H2s Fujifilm 50-140 F2.8
The opening ceremony had riders with flags representing our armed services. The announcer gave an emotional tribute that made you feel thankful for our Country.
FujiFilm H2s Fujifilm 50-140 F2.8
The first event was bareback bronc riders. Riders tried to stay on the bucking horse as they opened the gate. Most made it to time, but a few riders landed on the ground.
FujiFilm H2s Fujifilm 50-140 F2.8
The Steer wrestling was fun to watch. As the riders jumped from horse to steer, some wrestled down the steer with ease, and others struggled to get the steer down.
FujiFilm H2s Fujifilm 50-140 F2.8
Watching the cowboys come out in unison for team roping was a real treat. Each is having to rope the steer proved to be challenging. A few teams were successful, but we saw a lot of misses, and some only got one rear leg.
FujiFilm H2s Fujifilm 50-140 F2.8
A lot of entertainment kept the crowd laughing and in awe of some stunt riding.
FujiFilm H2s Fujifilm 50-140 F2.8
The action picked up with saddle bronc riding. Watching riders trying to stay on the horse was fun to watch.
FujiFilm H2s Fujifilm 50-140 F2.8
Tie-down roping was also entertaining. The horses are skillfully trained, and most of the riders are successful.
FujiFilm H2s Fujifilm 50-140 F2.8
The lady's barrel racing came out of the arena staging area, rounded the barrels, and then galloped full speed to the finish line. They were fun to watch as the crowd cheered them on.
FujiFilm H2s Fujifilm 50-140 F2.8
The last event was Bull Riding. It had the whole crowd paying attention, as these bulls are mean. As the riders came out of the gate, the bull was unpredictable. Some riders didn't make it a few seconds, and few rode until the time. The cowboys helping inside the arena showed a lot of respect for those bulls.
I can't say, "This Ain't My First Rodeo" anymore. We had a great time, and I hope you can see a rodeo.
Photography should be fun! It's not about the phone or camera brand you're using. Remember, your best photographs result from one thing, making an effort to get out and shoot.
Comments are always welcomed.
Mark
