Rodeo and dance fill arena
Gallito De Oaxaca uses all of his strength and skill to stay on this bull during the Jaripeo on July 30.
Banda Perla Azteca was the first band to play during the Jaripeo.
CHENEY - The Jaripeo Rodeo and Dance had bulls and people kicking up dust in Bi-Mart Arena on July 30.
The event is presented by Colima Entertainment and highlights Mexican rodeo traditions dating back to the 16th century.
According to the company owner, the event is still relatively new, but has already grown.
"It was a successful event because this was our third year doing this," Colima Owner Carlos Larios said. "We hope each year it continues to grow."
"1,100 people attended the event this year," he added.
He said it is his goal to make the event grow by showcasing the tradition behind it.
It can help educate people about the history and culture.
According to Larios, "Jaripeo is a traditional rodeo style that comes from the Spanish word "jaripear," which means to lasso or rodeo."
The lariat (lasso) was introduced to settlers by Mexican vaqueros (cowboys) in the mid-19th century he said.
According to Larios, this ultimately influenced the traditional cowboy culture of today.
The difference in this event is that the bull riders ride with no hands. They simply lock their legs around the bulls as tightly as possible.
After the rodeo, the arena opened up as a dance floor.
Hundreds of people then danced the night away to live traditional Mexican music.
Matthew graduated from West Virginia University-Parkersburg in 2011 with a journalism degree. He's an award-winning photographer and enjoys writing stories about people.
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