The Winnemucca Events complex was the site of the 30th Annual Ranch Hand Rodeo competition on Feb. 27- March 3 with locals and visitors from the western U. S. and Canada.
Kim Peterson is the Director of the Convention and Business Authority in Winnemucca.
“We lost a few people because of the weather in Oregon, but we were able to pick up a few more and we still have a good turnout," Peterson said. "We have a big crowd, the grandstands are full and everybody is having a good time. One of the neat things about this event is that it brings the community together. Neighbors come here just to meet their neighbors at this event, which is really cool. This is our rural heritage in this community, the lifestyles of the farmers and ranchers around here, it is a unique event.”
The cow dogs opened up the show on Wednesday and Thursday, along with over a hundred vendors showing their wares representing every kind of cowboy items.
“We used to have it outside in September, but when this building was built in 2000, we were able to bring it into the winter and the attendance doubled,” Peterson said. “People have a little more free time then, and with the weather the way that it is they are glad to get out and have someplace to go. We really appreciate all of the volunteers. They are what make this event work; working behind the scenes, moving cattle, moving horses, working the booths, and our office staff is great. They have these events down to a fine-tuned instrument. All of the restaurants in town have also shown a great hospitality; people like coming here because the community is friendly.”
On Friday, the Stock Horse Challenge was held, where horses demonstrated their abilities for prospective buyers. The start of the Barrel Bash (Barrel Racing) began on Friday also and continued through Sunday.
Cael Stratton is a 15 year-old from Lakeview, Oregon who attended the event in Winnemucca.
“I started in the rodeo when I was about five, and I have always been riding horses," Stratton said. "I did the Junior High Rodeo in Nebraska last year and we made it to the finals. Today I am showing a horse for sale. Winnemucca is fun, the trade show is cool and real big; I bought a rope to use on a yearling today.”
On Saturday the Ranch Hand Rodeo kicked off and continued through Sunday.
