The 10th Rosewood Rodeo drew a crowd to Expo III on Saturday, showcasing the riding abilities of more than 40 riders with developmental disabilities.
There were traditional rodeo competitions such as barrel racing, as well as a performance by the Rosewood Drill Team. During their 10-minute choreographed show, riders glided through 14 formation changes set to music.
The rodeo began in the morning with the grand entry, with Rep. John Edmonds, R-Great Bend, leading an invocation. It wrapped up in the afternoon with special recognition for child riders and an awards ceremony, followed by a barbecue. During the day there were rodeo events and activities such as a free photo booth and face painting.
Tammy Hammond, founder and executive director of Rosewood Services, said the first Rosewood Rodeo in 2005 was prompted by the clients at the ranch. “The riders were working hard every day,” she said. “We were so proud of their efforts and progress, and we thought it would be a good opportunity to share their progress with family, friends and the community.”
Rosewood Riders have continued to succeed. Nine Rosewood Ranch horse riders competed in the National Snaffle Bit Association World Championship Show Aug. 14-15 in Tulsa, Okla. For the second time in three years, Rosewood Ranch brought home a World Championship Trophy from that event to central Kansas.
Hammond said she’d like to see the Rosewood Drill Team perform at a future national event, even though it would not be for competition.