rganizers are kicking up their boots and calling the 74th annual Taylor Rodeo a “huge success,” citing record crowds and plenty of action-packed events.
The rodeo, sponsored by the Taylor Rodeo Association, took place July 18-20 at the Williamson County Expo Center.
“It was probably the best rodeo we have ever had. The crowds were really energetic all three nights,” said association President Tim Sims.
The festivities kicked off with the second annual First Responder Wild Steer Saddling Championship. The event featured five teams of firefighters who competed against the winning team from Hutto.
The firefighters were not the only ones to join in on the fun, as kids and adults got to test their skills trying to saddle a steer.
That’s never an easy task, Sims said.
“It’s always a rough deal,” he added. “It’s hard to get those things saddled because they are wild, I can promise you that.”
The rodeo also featured live concerts with musician Kenny Ort & No Chance playing Texas band hall music for a packed house the night of Friday, July 19.
Terry Hughes & the Debonaires performed the next evening for an equally sold-out crowd.
“Kenny is great as always. I can’t wait to have him back every year,” Sims said. “The Debonaires played, and it was a sold-out crowd. I don’t think we could have stuffed any more people in that building.” During the event, the rodeo named a new queen, Kaylee Hoyt, replacing 2023-24 Queen Katelyn Aderhold.
The popular mutton bustin’ event was a big hit, with over 160 young cowboys and cowgirls competing, organizers said.
The champion received a gift certificate from Cavender’s
Western Wear. The association also awarded 10 scholarships at $5,000 each to students from Williamson, Lee and Milam counties.
The rodeo, a Cowboys Professional Rodeo Associationsanctioned event, got its start in the early 1950s, officials said.
