There are dozens of "ranch rodeos" being produced in various locations throughout the Western States at this time, but none can capture the experience that is known as McDermitt Ranch Rodeo.
This event is never quite "over" when you think it is "over."
Friday, July 4th the rodeo competition begins with Ranch Bronc Riding, followed by all of the roping events, including the Team Branding.
Then the action moves to downtown McDermitt, where the street is shut down and kids of all ages can be seen running around with parents and grandparents in tow, participating in the street events designated for their age group.
Soon some of those same parents, as well as other adults, can be seen racing each other down the street, throwing water balloons, and demonstrating their dummy roping prowess.
Finally, as the evening draws down, those strong of heart can dance, drink, and catch up with friends until the sun comes up if they choose.
On Saturday, it's back to the arena for the second rodeo performance beginning at 10 a.m., and in reverse order with the Team Branding starting the day.
Just when the champions are being determined, and it would seem that the rodeo competition is winding down - the top five bronc riders are being sold on the track.
The action begins again as they ride it off for $500 (winner-take-all). It is only a matter of minutes until the Ranch Horse Race competition begins, and yes this really is the final event!
But the fun is still not over.
Ranch horse racers and their mounts parade in front of the grandstand, as the bidding begins again. Once the racers are purchased in the Calcutta they are led to north end of the track. There is no one left sitting once the horses leave the far end of the rodeo grounds headed for the finish line in front of the grand stands.
Some of these horses are the same ones that have been working all weekend, performing in various events - so what you see is real ranch horse power flying down the track, and it brings on as much excitement as the Kentucky Derby!
Indeed all good things must come to an end, and gradually people either head out of town towards home, or head back to the Say When Casino to collect their winnings, but either way most everyone is already talking about next year. So, it is only 'over' for another year.
Come and experience for yourself this unique rodeo - the one with its own little "attitude," and the one that has a hard time being over.
Rodeo performance begins Friday, July 4th at noon (Calcutta for teams at 11:30) at the McDermitt Rodeo Grounds. Kid's stick horse barrels and dummy roping take place on the track during this performance. Street events follow at 7 p.m. that evening, and the dance kicks off at 9 p.m. that night. Saturday, July 5th performance begins at 10 a.m.[[In-content Ad]]
