That's right, the National Finals Rodeo here in Las Vegas. It was awesome! As I sat there soaking up the excitement, the patriotism, the energy of the sold out crowd, I couldn't help but be inspired.
The lights go out, the lasers shoot across the fireworks and smoke, Taylor Hicks comes out to sing the National Anthem, hats go over racing hearts. Then the lights come back on the horses and cowboys come busting out of the shoots full speed with their State's flags whipping above them. They are introduced to roaring applause. And without a moment's interruption the games begin with the saddle broncs. Oh man, it was exciting!
The more I sat there, I thought about creating some majorly fascinating characters. These guys (and a few girls) are interesting folk (that's my country-speak). When the contestants are about to ride, the announcers tell a snippet or two about their lives. Like this one steer wrestling dude was a Nose Guard for Montana State for four years before he started competing in rodeos. He was huge. And this other cute little roper guy is about to have his first baby any day now. The part I loved the most was when they put their names on the megatrons with their headshots and hometowns. Freaking awesome cowboy names like:
- Cody Ohl
- Winn Ratliff
- Buster Record Jr.
- Rhen Richard
- Ace Slone
- Stetson Vest
- Friday Wright II
- Bobby Baize
- Beau Brooks
- Twister Cain
- Hunter Cure
- Bucky Campbell
- Bo Casper; and my fave:
- Ty Herd
Happy Friday y'all!