The National Western Stock Show is underway in Denver and as the Denver Postreports, 750 cowboys and cowgirls from across the country are expected to participate in all things rodeo between now and when the finals are held on Jan. 21.
For many of the competitors — whether they be bull riders, bareback bronco busters, steer wrestlers or barrel racers — rodeo is as much a lifestyle as it is a job. It requires long hours on the road and results in the occasional bruise or two (or worse). But it’s got plenty of perks - if you’re OK with life on the move.
During peak summer rodeo season, 24-year-old bull rider Cain Smith said it’s common for him to drive all night between events and put an estimated 75,000 miles on his truck in the process.
Tim Ditrich, a bronco rider said a successful rodeo is as much about the animals as anything. He said if a rider draws a horse that routinely doles out energetic, high-scoring rides, it’s a sign that the rider could end up in the money that day.
A complete listing of rodeo events coming up at the National Western Stock Show, visit www.nationalwestern.com/rodeos/.
