Cowpuncher's return

Twelve events for big weekend rodeo

WILLIAMS - It's not just a job, it's a way of life.

That's how Trina Runstead describes the events that make up the annual Cowpuncher's Reunion Rodeo. Runstead is secretary of the Arizona Cowpunchers Reunion Association.

Rodeo events kick off Thursday afternoon with jackpot roping and continue through the weekend with a total of 12 events, both individual and as team competitions Runstead said. Gates open daily at 1 p.m.

This will be the 31st reunion rodeo, Runstead said. Most of them have been held in Williams, she added.

It's not a rodeo event with fancy bullriding or things like that, Runstead said. It's just a showcase of ordinary skills that extraordinary cowpunchers use every day, she added.

Participants in the rodeo not only demonstrate their superb skill in the arena, but also use that skill on a daily basis. These are working cowboys and ranch families.

"The idea originated from things you really do on a ranch," said Runstead, who grew up on a ranch and participates in several events. "I do every year."

This year she'll be doing some roping events.

A total of 12 events are planned all together, including wild horse racing, wild cow milking, calf roping, bronc riding, ribbon roping, steer riding for children and team roping events. Team roping events include all girl, 12 and under, 16 and under mix, team tying, In order to compete in the reunion rodeo, Runstead said participants have to work on a ranch or be somehow involved in the cattle industry.

The majority of them are from Arizona, but there are also participants from Utah, New Mexico, Nevada and Texas, Runstead said.

"It gets a little bigger each year," Runstead said.

There are over 500 people participants expected this year, she added.

"We have something for everyone, from little kids right on up to grandparents," Runstead said.

Besides the rodeo itself, there will be vendors, food and entertainment, Runstead said. There will also be several bands performing.

"It's like a big reunion, once a year," Runstead said.