We all stood in a crowded corner of the Tack Room Saloon after the St. Paul Rodeo. After Molly left to grab another drink, my brother Jeremy confided that years ago, while working as a summer ranch hand in Wyoming, he watched the Collegiate National Finals Rodeo. He wanted to see another, but never found time to buy tickets. He had even bought a fancy cowboy hat, but never found an occasion to use it! It wasn't until Molly recommended that we take the trip down to St. Paul's Oregon that he was able to relive those memories.
As a relative rodeo newbie, I enjoyed hearing explanations of each event, and watching the competition, but what really struck me was the incredible atmosphere, hilarious announcer, fun crowd, and beautiful sunset.
It's probably not surprising that bull rides were a highlight. Check out this video of 3x World Champion Sage Steele Kimzey defeating a bull that had thrown him in a previous competition!
As evening drew to a close, we wandered the fairgrounds, met some of Molly's friends (including rodeo royalty!) ate some delicious curly fries, and watched the fireworks.
When the fireworks were over, we meandered towards the legendary Tack Room Saloon, which brings me back to where I started. Suffice to say, Jer and I are so glad to have Molly around to get us off our butts and exploring the world! It's a beautiful place, and full of vibrant life, which was certainly on display in a little town in Oregon this year under the strengthening summer sun.
