Saturday, March 12, 2016

Wintering in Yuma, AZ-Feb 12-14 ,2016

Note: the italic text is a contribution by Elaine; the non-italic text is Yvon's.

Feb. 12, 2016

After our first visit, on Feb. 10, as we promised ourselves, we returned to the Centre of the Earth, with another couple friends, Leonard and Rose.
The experience proved to be very enriching. And we left on our appetite, again.


Once in a while, we get our "dog fix"; this time we babysat one of the dogs I worked with (work in progress).
I know that Hannah has Elaine completely charmed. I have to admit, charm is Hannah's strongest side.


Feb. 14, 2016

Is there a better day than Valentine's Day to attend a Rodeo?
Well. Maybe.

But today, let's call it... a double opportunity. Valentine's; and Rodeo.
Attending to the Valentine's Day responsibilities first to ensure a more peaceful day...


Bright sunny day; slight breeze; box seats in the shade for...second row view.
Welcome to the Yuma Jaycees Silver Spurs Rodeo!


In these occasions, one can expect to encounter all kinds of characters and outfits; and kids are no strangers to the affair. I even made some friends with matching outfits, that were proud to pose for a picture opportunity (with mom's permission, of course...)
They kinda mix in with the energy, the smell of cook-out, hot dogs and hamburger, popcorn and cotton candy; they even feature in some of the contests.



Surely, there cannot be a Rodeo without a Queen, as a matter of fact, several Queens, representing different groups; riding pretty on a galloping horse, holding up a flag and posing for pictures. And this Rodeo is no exception. The Queen of the Rodeo is an integral part of the opening ceremonies.

The organizers of this event recognize the importance to honour the military veterans, past and present, for their services. And they do it with exuberance.

 

One of my favorite personality at a Rodeo is the Clown.

The painted-face, baggy pants, big red nose character that interacts with the crowd during the events; and hides in a barrel in the middle of the arena, when the horses are kicking and the bulls are bucking; giving every spectator the chills, with the expectation that the barrel might be sent rolling from one end to the other of the ground.


Amongst other events, I love watching the barrel race; where riders compete for time in a race around some barrels, before sprinting to the finish line.
 
There is bull riding; wild bronco riding; steer catching.

 
And the show is not complete without the sheep riding competition, by 4 to 12 years old kids. Some manage a good ride. It's in their blood; in their DNA. It's also very entertaining.


Now, for this show, if they can set-up barrel racing for horse riders, can they feature barrel racing for...dirt bikes? What about 4 wheel dirt machines?


Of course they do! Proves to be very entertaining. This one again involves younger adolescents, anxious to show their skills in front of an audience.

Fun for everyone. Western style. A culture that I am only starting to appreciate; by attending events and by rubbing shoulders with the people who's way of life it is.

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