Community Corner
Rowell Ranch Pro Rodeo Set For This Weekend In Castro Valley
Events kick off Friday with the Rockin' Bull Bash and a country music concert, followed by two days of professional rodeo action.
CASTRO VALLEY, CA — The Rowell Ranch Pro Rodeo will mark its 100th anniversary this weekend in Castro Valley with the "Rockin’ Bull Bash," a concert with country star Kurt Van Meter, two days of rodeo action, a barbeque and the "Cowboy Experience," a chance for fans to get an up-close look at the animals and equipment.
The annual event dates to 1921, first hosted by Harry Rowell, "The Rodeo King of the West," and now still draws crowds and also supports many area charities.
"Begun more than 100 years ago by local rancher and rodeo stock contractor, Harry Rowell, it remains a time for the community to come together and celebrate while knowing they are giving back to local nonprofits," organizers said.
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Weekend activities kick off Friday evening, May 19, with the Rockin’ Bull Bash, professional bull riding performances, "Chutes & Skirts," a 21-and-over VIP experience and the after-party concert with Van Meter, a country singer who has shared the stage with such icons as Blake Shelton, Eric Church, Gary Allen, Montgomery Gentry and Garth Brooks.
Rodeo action begins at 1:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 20-21. Attendees can arrive early, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., for the "Cowboy Experience," a firsthand look at the arena, rodeo equipment and animals.
Find out what's happening in Castro Valleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Saturday's rodeo is followed by a tri-tip barbeque with live music and dancing.
Leading up to the weekend, other events include the Cecil Jones Cowboy Challenge Wednesday, May 18 starting at 4 p.m., with a barbeque, dance, team roping and a "Wild Cow Milking Calcutta auction.
And the annual Cowgirl Picnic, 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 19, is a ladies-only luncheon, with food service from local cowboys, ranchers and firefighters.
Weekend rodeo tickets are $25 to $40 and can be ordered online here. Tickets also can be purchased at the gate. The events are at Rowell Ranch Rodeo Park, 9725 Dublin Canyon Road in Castro Valley.
Proceeds from the rodeo and related events benefit such local organizations as Special Olympics, Tough Enough to Wear Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Program, 4-H, Future Farmers of America, Hayward Rotary, Castro Valley Breakfast Lions Club and Castro Valley Kiwanis Club.
Follow this link for more information, ticket links and event details.
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