Yeehaw y'all, it's that time of year again! The Houston Rodeo starts on March 1st - that's just over a week away! Are you excited? We sure are. We know some of our readers are hardcore rodeo fans. The kinds of fans who never miss one day of festivities in any given year and can promptly recite stats of famed cowboys and livestock off the tops of their heads. But there are some lesser-known (yet still just as interesting) facts about RodeoHouston that even the most dedicated attendees have continued to overlook throughout the years. No worries - in the dark you shall be no longer, because we've compiled a short list of 8 things you probably don't know about this yearly, globally-known phenomenon.
1. It's the world's largest livestock show and rodeo. Yes, the WORLD. That isn't just a Texas-sized exaggeration.
2. They've committed over $40 million dollars to youth scholarships since the rodeo began.
It's more than just a month of entertainment - it's a charitable organization. RodeoHouston wants to see children succeed, so they reward students in FFA, 4-H, and other similar clubs.
3. They care about their animals.
Judges arrive three hours prior to the start of events to examine the livestock and ensure they're healthy enough to compete. After every competition, they re-examine them and inform the rodeo veterinarian of any injuries.
4. Roy Rogers attended the rodeo in 1956 to browse the livestock exhibits, sporting a fireman's uniform, glasses, and a fake mustache to disguise himself for fear of being mobbed by fans.
5. You can win money in the calf scramble.
The certificates started at $55 when the scramble was first added in 1942, but now you can win up to $1,000 for catching a calf.
6. The cowboys and cowgirls have luxury accommodations.
As of 2003, there's a locker room for all RodeoHouston contestants, and the cowboys and cowgirls have access to a lounge and customized hydrotherapy room to unwind after their fierce competitions.
7. Bodacious, an 1800 pound bull who appeared in the rodeo in 1993, is one of the few animals in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Hall of Fame.
His career began by knocking out the famous bull rider Cody Lambert. Bodacious was retired just two years later after injuring so many riders.
8. There's a parade!
The festivities extend far beyond the arena. You can enjoy some delicious rodeo food while watching the elegant, elaborate parade that accompanies the show every year.
Did you know these things about the Houston Rodeo? What about any other cool facts about the world's largest livestock show? Let us know in the comments - your input is always appreciated!
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