Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Rodeo Days


Congratulations to all the pickleball players who participated in the in-house tournament this past weekend!  To say the least, it twas a bit nippy outdoors so we had to dress appropriately for the unexpected cold weather.....but the games went on!

I couldn't resist a snapshot of one of our dedicated line judges on duty.  In case you can't recognize her all bundled up, it is Suzie Nunley.  


I'm sure tournament results and photos will be available on the pickleball blog soon.

Mark your calendars for the big Rodeo events coming up next week.  I copied this information from the Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce Newsletter.  There is a website link posted at the bottom of this article.

Cowboy & Indian Days 2013 begins on Friday, February 15 and runs through Saturday, February 24 at Ed Hooper Rodeo Grounds, 2525 N. Pinal Avenue. Please see news release below from the West Pinal County Mounted Sheriff's Posse. The City of Casa Grande is proud to be one of the many sponsors.

2013 Casa Grande Cowboy and Indian Days

Casa Grande, AZ - The West Pinal County Mounted Sheriff's Posse, in conjunction with its loyal partners and sponsors are proud to host the 2013 Casa Grande Cowboy and Indian Days from February 15 – 24 at the Ed Hooper Rodeo Park, 2525 N Pinal Avenue.


The 10-day event is a celebration of rich heritage of the community, as well as an opportunity to pay tribute to the neighboring Indian Nations and Communities. The first weekend kicks-off with a parade in the downtown, which will undoubtedly include several equestrian and Native American entries and a two day All Indian Rodeo. Some of the best Native American cowboys and cowgirls compete in a variety of rodeo events produced by Honeycutt Rodeo, Inc. and sanctioned by Southwest Indian Rodeo Association which include; bull riding, bareback, saddle bronc, steer wrestling, tie down roping, ladies barrels and breakaway roping. There is also a Quad-Nation roping, featuring ropers from the Ak-Chin, Gila River, Salt River Pima, and Tohono O'odham Nations. “The contestants competing for prizes and buckles are doing so knowing that this rodeo is one of the few that has a true 100 percent payout” touts Ben Crow, the All Indian Rodeo Chairman!

The full event is anchored by the Mike Cervi Jr. Memorial Roping, which is scheduled for February 19 & 20. The open Cervi Pre Roping will start at noon on Tuesday, with the Pro Am and Pro Classic taking place on Wednesday. With a history of legendary payoffs, top roping action, and a supportive community, the Cervi ropings have grown to be one of the premier events on the roping calendar for Pros, Amateurs, and Fans. Many of the ropers in the Nation compete for prizes and money, with the proceeds to benefit the Justin Crisis Fund.

The event closes with a two day Ranch Rodeo. Working ranch cowboys from around the Southwest travel to Casa Grande from their respective ranch to compete against other ranches in this team event. Traditionally comprised of a four member team, ranch cowboys compete in several events, to include; wild cow milking, calf branding, trailer loading, and team penning. To put the spectators at the edge of their seats, a saddle bronc and wild horse race events are added. “This growing event showcases the necessary skills and know how ranch cowboys use daily on today's ranches. The rodeo events require the same teamwork that is used in their everyday lives. Those watching enjoy action, excitement and thrills in a wholesome family environment,” said Dick Powell, event organizer.

This event also includes the Annual Maple Leaf Classic roping, several Jackpot and Open ropings. The Women's Barrel Racing event is scheduled for February 22. The Posse is excited to have Frazier Shows back this year as the carnival provider. The rides will be spinning both weekends. Vendors will be on-site through the event.

A full schedule of events is attached. To download an entry form for the Parade or All Indian Rodeo, visit our website at www.casagrandecowboydays.com