If you missed it, here is the link for the first half of Midwest Horse Fair.
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This PRCA event was our first time attending a rodeo this decade. Two nights of rodeo at MWHF always sell out. We either get tickets early, or simply don't go. This also applies to attending music events. At this stage of my life, nose bleed seats just don't appeal to me.
The rodeo at fair was something else this year. Freshest calves we have ever witnessed! They literally were like jumping beans. Non-stop bouncing off the ground. I wonder what they fed them to make them strong, big and fast. With a dose of crazy. One calf repeatedly tried to kick a cowboys face off. Some ended up running towards the Tie Down horses, instead of away. Expressions were priceless. The cowboys wrassled, got tangled up, fell backwards, tucked-n-rolled and tried their very best. In the end, the four legged animals won most of the time.
I tried to get a few key photos from my seat. We were sitting behind/next to part of a drill team that performed at the Friday Night rodeo. I learned a few things. Fun chatting with the spicy one sitting next to me, when she wasn't going in/out of our aisle 50X (insert eye roll).
Onto the photos!
10 horse all gelding Belgian pyramid hitch
I not so secretly want to drive a single or pair of drafts. The lead Belgian was so proud and confident!
The Fox Hound group was fun to watch again. The red jacket rider is a distinguished experienced lead. This lady has led for decades.
calling in the hounds (with a whistle)
The well-known award winning rodeo clown John Harrison and announcer Kelly Kenney were entertaining as always.
double trouble
the horse was playing dead
trying to get his horse to stand up
I only took a couple shots of the cowboys, mostly because of our seating situation. We were plenty close to the arena, but most of the shoots/my shots were blocked. Totally okay. Rodeo shooting is just for fun.
I thoroughly enjoy watching the fearless talented pick up riders and mounts. They are life savers.
sadly this bull rider got hurt (stomped on)
I am a big fan of the acts. The endless hours these folks must put in to showcase their talents.
Liberty Cunningham
This young roman rider is only 13 years old. I cannot imagine the confidence it takes to trick ride in a sold out arena. At any age.
The main entertainment act was a highly award winning Roper & Trick Riding husband wife team (Rider & Bethany Kiesner). I had the most camera fun trying to catch this acts non-stop action.
Some entertainers use spotlights, which is ideal for photos. Otherwise rodeo shots have very busy backgrounds. Here is just a small fraction of the duo's snappin-n-jumping-riding act:
closing out with the stars of the rodeo, horses
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Well, that's a wrap. I hope your eyeballs didn't fall out. In conclusion, I really enjoyed attending fair again this year. I will go as long as I am able. There is something to be said for hanging around like minded people and watching the incredible talent presented. Not to mention the gorgeous equine!!
