This year marks the 75th anniversary of the San Benito County Saddle Horse Show and Rodeo, and plans are in the works to celebrate with style.
"It's going to be wild and woolly!" said Mike O'Connell, president of the Saddle Horse Association, when asked about expectations for this year's event. "We're going to try to put on a special show."
The rodeo, which has become a tradition for thousands of people in San Benito County, will feature new and old attractions this year all with the purpose of adding more excitement for attendees.
"We have special entertainment coming, and there's going to be some surprises," said O'Connell.
The rodeo will take place at the usual place at Bolado Park in Tres Pinos from June 27 through June 29. The annual parade downtown also is set for June 26.
So far, more than 100 people have signed up to compete and a bigger crowd of spectators is expected, as well as new vendors. But before the main show begins, other free events will take place. Among them are the memorial roping ceremony to honor deceased, former participants of the rodeo. It's on June 21, a Saturday, and the figure-eight roping eliminations are the following day.
According to O'Connell, some of the competitions will have rule changes, making them more challenging for competitors and fun to viewers. The annual association barbecue held to raise funds for the rodeo and the community will also feature new items ranging from art pieces to food.
A full schedule for the Saddle Horse Show and Rodeo events as well as a list of ticket prices can be found on its Web site at www.sanbenitocountyfair.com/rodeo.
Natalia Galbetti Got a question or a comment? Send us an email.
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