College of Western Idaho's (CWI) Youth Rodeo 101 celebrated a third year of introducing Nampa's youth to the 100-year plus tradition of the Snake River Stampede. Nearly 100 kids from the Nampa Boys and Girls Club teamed up with professional cowboys from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and rodeo royalty to learn first-hand and experience professional rodeo events including bareback, saddle bronc, and bull riding, as well as roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and bullfighting.
The day began with a tour of the bucking horses, followed by the kids having a chance to come face-to-face with Jake, a spotted draft horse that leads the stagecoach every night of the Stampede. For many, this was the first time they were able to be up close and personal with such a big, beautiful animal. The kids also received an official PRCA back number and a CWI backpack full of mementos from their day.
“CWI is proud to bring this opportunity to our community,” said President Gordon Jones. “Both the rodeo arena and the classroom encourage resilience, curiosity, and the confidence to take on new challenges. This clinic gives young participants a chance to build lasting skills while connecting with a tradition that has thrived for 110 years.”
The College plans to continue this annual event and looks forward to educating our young community on this treasured Nampa heritage.
