Rodeo Time!: A How-To Guide

The 24th annual World Championship Ranch Rodeo kicks off TOMORROW? With a jam-packed lineup of entertainment, it can feel overwhelming. But we’re here to help you organize your time so you can make the most of your trip to Amarillo.

First thing: Get through the trade shows ASAP. You need a list of what you’re looking for because it’s so easy to get distracted, but you also need to take time to see it all and do some comparison shopping. Think about your options during the remainder of your trip.

Next: Watch the horse shows/sales. With the Ranch Horse of America-sanctioned show and the newly-added WRCA Invitational Ranch Horse Gelding Sale, you’re going to see some of the best ranch horses in existence. If you don’t take the time to see them, why did you even come to Amarillo?

After that: Carve out time from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday to watch Cowboys: A Documentary Portrait. These filmmakers have been working on this project for years, and by all the teasers, it chronicles the West and cowboy lifestyle accurately and movingly. Plus, it’d be a good chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of shopping for a minute.

Then: By now, you’ve had time to narrow down some of your shopping decisions. Swing back by for one more look.

Rodeo Time: Somehow, someway, take in at least one performance. Thursday and Sunday are the easiest tickets, so you might want to plan your travel around that, but Friday and Saturday nights are electric. If you can get a seat, do it.

Finally: Time to buy it. Whatever you had on your list for you or your loved ones, go get it in the bag.

Most Importantly: Think about how you can be a part of the WCRR next year. We all love going, but did you know that it’s run almost exclusively by volunteers? Everyone working is donating their time in an effort to raise money and awareness for the working cowboy, his family, and ranching heritage. Find a director and ask how you can help. If it doesn’t fit in your schedule, financial contributions to the Foundation are just as needed. The point is this: This event is more than a cowboy convention, it is a community gathering. Become a part of it, share your time, talents, and resources to do your part to give back to the culture we all love.