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More than 600 cowboys and cowgirls will compete in the annual California Rodeo Salinas at the Salinas Sports Complex from July 19 through July 22. All of the Salinas Rodeo competitors have dreams of winning the nearly $400,000 in prize money along with the exquisite gold and silver commemorative belt buckle. Tens of thousands attend the festivities each year.
Salinas Rodeo History
In 1911, the California Rodeo Salinas was simply known as the Wild West Show and was held at the Sherwood Race Track. The festivities lasted an entire week and provided the chance for local cowboys and cowgirls to demonstrate their skill and agility while riding bucking broncos. Two years later, the event was called the California Rodeo. A decade later, attendance doubled, which necessitated the need for a larger facility that included barns and bucking chutes. By 1924, the festivities included the introduction of a rodeo queen. Beginning in the 1930s, Hollywood celebrities began making appearances. Gene Autry, Will Rogers, Clint Eastwood and stars of the popular “Gunsmoke” series were known to attend over the years. The decade also introduced a BBQ and a children’s parade. Over the years, prize money increased along with the number of competitive events and exhibits.
California Rodeo Salinas Events
On the evening of July 13, Blake Shelton will kick off the PRCA rodeo and fair by performing live to the delight of the audience. Other performers will follow. Special attractions include a carnival and midway, the Heritage Museum and the Whiskey Saloon.
At 6:30 P.M., on July 14, the downtown area will host the annual Kiddie Kaper Parade followed by the Colmo del Rodeo Parade. Beginning on July 19, East Alisal and the downtown areas will host horse parades.
In addition to the traditional lineup of PRCA competitions, younger cowpokes have the chance to compete in a coloring competition, mutton bustin’ and a stick horse race. On the afternoon of July 21, special needs children have the chance to participate in the Special Buckaroos Rodeo. The Kid’s Corral keeps little ones entertained throughout the week by offering a number of activities that include live performances, carnival games, a petting zoo and inflatables.
Tickets
Guests may venture to the Salinas Sports Complex to get tickets for the concerts and rodeo, or get your tickets online here.
Stay updated on all the Salinas Rodeo and PRCA standings as the Cowboy Lifestyle Network will provide live coverage. Media coverage will also be provided by the Ak-Chin Indian Community and the Earnhardt Auto Centers Road Team.[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKxnIyljhkE” align=”center”][vc_masonry_media_grid grid_id=”vc_gid:1555973978267-ab4d7209-a53a-0″ include=”43151,43152,43153,43154,43155,43156,43157,43158,43159,43160,43161,43162″][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFvuE08icRk&t=12s” align=”center”][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIM0aa6p1ao” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Aaron Kuhl Aaron Kuhl is a passionate advocate for the western lifestyle, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN). Growing up as an Arizona native, with a mother who worked for Wrangler Western for over 30 years, Aaron was immersed in the cowboy culture from a young age. Aaron and his sister Heather grew up watching rodeos, as their grandfather and uncle were PRCA ProRodeo cardholders. This early exposure has given him a profound understanding and appreciation for the western way of life. Aaron went to Corona del Sol High School in Tempe, AZ, then to the University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ, where he received a Bachelor of Science after creating his own major. This unique course of study wove together Business Marketing, Geography, Sociology, Philosophy, and Religion. After graduating from the University of Arizona, Aaron joined CLN in its nascent stages, contributing to its growth and development over the past decade. As COO, Aaron manages operations, using AI to streamline processes and analyze data, ensuring CLN remains a leading voice. With expertise in business development, he innovates and cultivates client relationships, supporting CLN’s exponential growth. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Aaron values his faith, family, and friends, which are the cornerstones of his life. This personal foundation, combined with his professional expertise, makes him a trusted and authoritative voice in the western lifestyle community. Aaron’s commitment to philanthropy is the bedrock of his personal ethos. He actively supports local Arizona organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club, Chandler Compadres, Horses Help, Harris Brothers Charity Foundation, and the American Heart Association (among others), reflecting his dedication to giving back and strengthening the community he calls home. Through his work, Aaron aims to preserve and promote the traditions of the west, ensuring that the spirit of the cowboy lives on for future generations.
