Stifling summer heat couldn’t keep a large contingent of rodeo enthusiasts from attending an event where a bevy of fearless rodeo participants put on a show for the ages.
Rodeo fans of all ages converged on the Puyallup fairgrounds for the third annual Mexican Rodeo and Dance event in Paulhamus Arena on June 21. A capacity crowd filled the venue, taking advantage of an opportunity to see bull riding live.
Fernando Earnica of Federal Way made the short drive with his wife and children to Puyallup to enjoy the festivities.
“This is the first time I’ve came,” Earnica said. “I came here because it’s a fun thing to bring my family to. We were very excited about coming.”
Attendee Miguel Ortiz was all smiles as he delivered programs to individuals making their way to the arena.
“We have everything here. We have bands from Mexico, bull riding and horses,” Ortiz said. “Last time we had a lot of people and we have a lot of people here this year.”
Renton resident Sandra Castro said the Mexican Rodeo is an opportunity for the hispanic community to come together.
“I grew up in Jalisco, Mexico. The rodeo is something I grew up with and are used to,” Castro said. “This is a place where people come to remember where we came from. This is the closest we can get to where something is just like it is at home.”
Puyallup resident Jack Shanes looks forward to the Mexican Rodeo each time it rolls into town.
“It’s a different culture. You don’t see something like this in Puyallup every day. It allows people to see a different way of life,” Shanes said. “It’s not like your typical American rodeo. It’s more than just the bull-riding. It involves bands, dancing and music. It’s so much more than just you’re average rodeo.”
Nic Brewer concurred with Shanes’ assessment.
“It’s pretty cool. It’s a different environment here at the fair and that’s good,” Brewer said. “It’s a lot of fun and brings a lot of people here. I like it. This is the second time the rodeo has came here this year.”
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