HoundsGood: Chronicles of a Virtual Volunteer

If you flip around the channels, there are a couple satellite stations that broadcast shows on ranch life (at least around here.) From all of the coverage, you would think that every person on earth, except for you, must be in line for National Final Rodeo tickets.   The NFR has been hosted in Las Vegas since the 80s, after being lured away from Oklahoma city.

Rodeos typically cover traditional pasttimes that were developed on American ranches.  Barrel racing is all about speed and precision.  Calf roping is about teamwork.  Bull riding is usually a whole bunch of folks getting together and wondering why someone would be so incredibly stupid to ride a bull in the first place, with full knowledge that they were going to fall off in just a few seconds into the future. If you are like me, you cheer for the bull.

There have been a lot of questions about rodeos.  Some believe it is total animal cruelty and devote their time to trying to shut them down.  Some think that many of the activities are legitimate sport or group activity where animal treatment is much better because the participants are highly visible at that level.  For me, having both befriended American Quarter Horses and having owned one similar to horses that participate, i can tell you that some horses just love being with their people, and their ears perk up with the prospect of a challenge.   Where my mixed feelings come in is the bucking bulls.  That can’t be comfortable.

Whatever your position is on the subject, the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo will be sure to draw a crowd.  Attend and decide for yourself.

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