The 1994 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo was a star-studded record-breaking extravagaza. if it were any othe event, it would bea hard act to follow. But throughout the history of the Show, things just keep getting better every year. The 1995 Show, the 63rd annual celebration, promises to be the best one yet.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo isn’t just an event; it’s a passion. Although the Show itself lasts only three weeks, that intangible but welcomed infliction known as February Fever begins to permeate the population in and far beyond the Houston area long before the first trail riders come into town to kick off the start of the Show.
When it starts getting cold and rainy, it’s trail ride time,” said Robert McAnelly, officer in charge of the Trail Ride Committee. The longtime tradition of braving the weather and saddling up to journey from several points in Texas and outside the state to ride into Houston’s Memorial Park and the downtown parade continues to be a popular attraction for the Show.
Toby Keith’s song, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” evokes nostalgic images of Roy Rogers and Gene Autry singing those campfire songs. Listening to him brings back memories of western heroes with silver saddles and faithful sidekicks. But Garth Brooks paints perhaps a more realistic image of a rodeo cowboy’s life with his plaintive lament “Much Too Young (to Feel This Damn Old)” when he complains, “The white line’s getting longer.” Nevertheless, while the perpetual quest for the best ride may take its toll on a cowboy’s body, the thrill of competition and the chance to take home the prize money make it an irresistible attraction for many.
Imagine if the Dallas Cowboys won the Super Bowl by five touchdowns, but they were not declared the NFL Champions because their opponent did not play hard enough to present a good challenge.
In the previous issue, we introduced you to five recipients of Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo scholarships. Those Houston Rodeo scholars won their awards in the early 1970s, when the Show and the scholarship program each were experiencing growth spurts. Response to “Where Are They Now?” has been great - so great
that you’ve asked for more stories of Show scholarship recipients. Here’s a look at more winners from two decades ago.
With a total animal population rivaling that of a small city, and with a commitment to excellence in the livestock industry, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo officials take proper animal care and handling very seriously.
Letters and comments should be sent to:
Marketing and Public Relations Division,
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™
P.O. Box 20070
Houston, Texas 77225-0070
