Introduction 1

Part1: Beyond the Boots: Getting Started with Rodeo 5
CHAPTER 1: Rodeo 101 7
CHAPTER 2: The Evolution of the Rodeo Format 23


Part2: The Western Way: Western Culture's Role in Rodeo 35
CHAPTER 3: Honoring the Cowboy Code 37
CHAPTER 4: Apparel, Tack, and Gear 45


Part3: Events Explained 63
CHAPTER 5: Rodeo Events Rundown 65
CHAPTER 6: A Merry-Go-Round of Go Rounds 95
CHAPTER 7: Turning Pro in Pro Rodeo 99
CHAPTER 8: The All-Around Champion 111
CHAPTER 9: Crowd Pleasers 119


Part4: Behind the Chutes 131
CHAPTER 10: Stock Contractors 133
CHAPTER 11: Meeting the Faces around the Arena 145


Part5: Your First Rodeo 155
CHAPTER 12: Getting Started 157
CHAPTER 13: Preparing for the Big Ride 173
CHAPTER 14: Getting Involved Outside the Arena 183
CHAPTER 15: Events Just Left of Rodeo 203
CHAPTER 16: Rodeo's Horse Breeds 241


Part6: Rodeo's Place in Culture and Media 249
CHAPTER 17: Inclusivity and Diversity 251
CHAPTER 18: Rodeo in Mainstream Media 259


Part7: The Part of Tens 265
CHAPTER 19: Ten Legendary Cowboys and Cowgirls 267
CHAPTER 20: Ten of the Greatest Rodeos to Attend 279
CHAPTER 21: Ten National Finals Rodeo Record Holders 295

Appendix A: Rodeo Jargon 305
Index 317