Pendleton Round Up
Pendleton Round Up's History
The Pendleton Round-Up, an annual event held in Oregon, is more than just a rodeo. It is a week-long celebration of the western lifestyle that has been an integral part of American history. Today, the Pendleton Round-Up is among the most prestigious live sports events in the United States, attracting thousands of spectators who secure their coveted Round-Up tickets months in advance.
Inaugurated in 1910, the initial aim of the Pendleton Round-Up was to stage a frontier exhibition that could depict the rough, energetic life of the West. The founders, a group of Pendleton businessmen, envisioned it as an event where cowboys and cowgirls could display their skills, while also offering an exciting and authentic western experience for the audience.
The debut event, which ran for three days, was a resounding success, drawing in a crowd of 7,000 spectators - a substantial number considering Pendleton's population at the time was around 4,000. The overwhelming response exceeded the founders' expectations, laying a strong foundation for the Pendleton Round-Up's future.
Over the years, the Pendleton Round-Up has expanded in scope and popularity. It now runs for a full week every September and features a range of events including traditional rodeo competitions, parades, dances, concerts, and the unique 'Happy Canyon Indian Pageant' - a show depicting the interaction between Native Americans and white settlers during the frontier era.
One of the defining traits of the Pendleton Round-Up is its commitment to authenticity. Unlike some modern rodeos, Pendleton has held strong to its traditions, even retaining its original grass arena. The bucking stock doesn't start from enclosed chutes as is common in most rodeos, but from the open area of the arena. This commitment to traditional rodeoing, coupled with the Round-Up's rich history, lends the event a unique charm that continues to draw crowds year after year.
Securing tickets to the Pendleton Round-Up can be quite a challenge due to the event's popularity. Demand usually far exceeds supply, as fans from across the country - and beyond - vie for a chance to witness the iconic rodeo in person. The sheer number of spectators has grown exponentially over the years, from the initial 7,000 attendees at the first Round-Up to over 50,000 today.
Despite the challenges posed by ticket scarcity and the event's growing popularity, the Pendleton Round-Up remains committed to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for all attendees. In recent years, the Round-Up has also adopted modern ticketing systems to streamline the ticket purchasing process and ensure that as many fans as possible can secure their place at the event.
Overall, the Pendleton Round-Up remains a living testament to America's western heritage. It is not just a rodeo but a celebration of a way of life, honouring the traditions and values of the West in a manner that is as authentic today as it was over a century ago. Whether you're a die-hard rodeo fan or just someone looking for a unique cultural experience, the Pendleton Round-Up is definitely an event worth securing a ticket to experience first-hand.
More About Pendleton Round Up
The Round-Up's highlight is its world-renowned rodeo, which features some of the finest cowboys and cowgirls from around the globe. There are various categories of events, including steer roping, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, bareback riding, and barrel racing. The series of events culminates in the thrilling Championship Finals, where competitors vie for substantial cash prizes and the coveted title of Pendleton Round-Up Champion.
In more recent years, the Round-Up has further solidified its reputation as a premier rodeo event. The 2019 Round-Up was particularly memorable with bull rider Stetson Wright winning his first all-around world championship title. The young cowboy from Utah delivered an outstanding performance, thrilling the crowd with his daring rides and showing the skill and grit necessary to win at this tough sport.
In the same year, barrel racer Emily Miller, with her horse Namgis D 35, turned in one of the fastest times in Round-Up history. It was a nail-biting performance as she raced around the barrels, her horse’s hooves kicking up dust as they flew across the arena. The crowd roared in appreciation as she crossed the finish line, securing her victory with a record-breaking time.
The Bareback Riding event saw record-breaking performances, too. Clayton Biglow’s 94-point ride happened to be the highest ever scored in the Pendleton Round-Up’s Bareback Riding history. This monumental score on the horse named "Killer Bee" was a testament not only to Biglow's athletic prowess but also to the top-notch stock provided by the rodeo.
However, the Pendleton Round-Up performances are not limited to rodeo events. The event also includes traditional Native American dances, music, and pageantry. The Happy Canyon Indian Pageant, a nightly show featuring tribal members in traditional regalia retelling the history of the West, remains one of the most enchanting elements of the Round-Up, bringing together sporting spectacle and cultural celebration.
Securing tickets to the Pendleton Round-Up guarantees a spot for witnessing these incredible performances live. The Round-Up consistently sells out well in advance due to its popularity. Fans are advised to purchase tickets early to guarantee their place at the iconic Pendleton Round-Up stadium, where they can feel the earth rumble beneath as horses thunder by, and immerse themselves in the adrenaline-fueled atmosphere.
With every year that passes, the Pendleton Round-Up further cements its status as a must-see event, a thrilling showcase of athleticism, tradition, and community spirit. Whether you're a die-hard rodeo fan or new to the sport, the event guarantees a spectacle that will keep you on the edge of your seat, making it one of America's top live sports events.