The Jackson Hole Rodeo
I Wanna Be A Cowboy!
Yippee?!
When I was a little boy, I wanted to be a cowboy. Eh….not “just” a cowboy. Rather, I wanted to be the Lone Ranger. Or perhaps one of the Magnificent Seven (Steve McQueen or James Coburn, in particular). I liked my cowboy hats and boots, badges, etc. and my toy Colt 45 (before it was politically incorrect).
Well times have changed–not that much, though. I still wear my hats from time to time and I like dippin’ into my boot collection frequently. But, I don’t have a six gun any longer.
Or course, I did not grow up to be a cowboy!! And, after going to the rodeo in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, I realize that more clearly than ever. Wow….can you believe what these men and women and horses go through?
Who liked this less??
I’m still interested in Western lore and culture….been going through or to the West since the early sixties. We have had many friends and family who’ve lived in Texas (including our son, Jordan, who went to the University of Texas and worked and lived in Dallas for a year after graduating). I can’t even count how many times we’ve been there! And our daughter, Audrey, and her family now live in Colorado, which also has a Western flavor.
However, I am proud and content to say I’m a city guy. It’s great living in the Chicago area…best city in the world. But, I still like to wear my cowboy hats and boots, etc. when I can.
In fact, while we were in Jackson Hole, I ordered a new hat. I asked the woman, “What about a kerchief?” She replied, “Around here, we call ‘em dust bandits.” Who knew?
Hiyo Silver!!
-Stephen M. Levin
“My Mind’s Eye”
www.stephenmlevinphotos.com
(A special shout out to Adrienne LaMilza at JR Customization for redesigning my blog!)
Classic Cowboy
In Style
What about my hat?!?
“Don’t worry…I got yer hat!”
Ride ’em, Cowboy!
Thirsty Cowboy
Really Wild Animals!
At the Rodeo
I like all the pictures but I like . the last picture the most as I think it’s the least literal and most suggestive. Also, the most artistic (do people still use that word? A shame if they don’t.).
I agree there’s somethin’ about that image. Saw the two of them on the fence as we were leaving the grounds. The lighting, pose, and atmosphere just clicked (excuse the pun!) for me.
I love the pics of the horses in motion. They are beautiful !
Thanks! The entire event was visually fascinating. And we eventually figured out just what they were all doin’ in the different events , for the most part.
Again fascinating pictures. Felt like I was at the rodeo too.
It was fun being there….a good trip for you, too?!?
Thx…as usual.
I felt as if I were in the ring with these Cowboys and Cowgirls (thank goodness I was not) through your photographs.
Actually, at the end of the rodeo, they invited all the kids to come on to the “field” to chase around a few sheep and grab things that were tied to their necks. So, we got a chance to go on the field with them and take pictures. Kinda cool….but ya gotta be careful where you step!
They also had mini riders near the end…down to 3 and 4 years old. On “tame” animals. Really adorable…all dressed up and with all the moves. They even came out of the chutes.
Actually, I have viewed a rodeo one time in my life (in Wauconda) and to put it mildy, these guys and girls are certifiable nuts. Great pictures and keep them coming.
Yep…I can’t believe what they go through. And I thought it was funny that one of the billboards I saw on the fence was advertising, “Teton Orthopaedics!” YIKES.
Fantastic shots! The sepiatone effect is perfect for this subject matter, although the deep Kodachrome kind of color on the running fans shot is great. I, too, particularly like the mood of the last shot. And, like you, The Lone Ranger was always my favorite. Even if I didn’t get the 6 shooters and white stallion, I just wanted Clayton Moore’s voice.
Thanks, Mark.
Yes…always thought Clayton Moore was a cool guy.
Come to think of it, he did have an unbelievable voice, didn’t he?!
Steve,
These rodeo shots are amazing! The one of the vertical horse is incredible.
Let’s see one of YOU in your new hat!
Thanks, Carol. I agree….seeing the horse (and rider) flip up in the air like that was kinda scary….and definitely unexpected!
I had to order the hat…I’ll let you know when it arrives.
Great pics Kemo Sabe! I can’t wait until you post the pics of you with your new ten gallon hat and kerchief!
Tonto–you DO know Tonto’s real name, don’t you?? It’s “Jay.”
Hmmm…yes. The hat/kerchief arrival may call for a photo opp. And it all matches the vest you saw last night!
As always gorgeous pictures.
Nancy–Much appreciated…also, as always.