Rodeo Kicks Up Some Dust at Morongo

MORONGO INDIAN RESERVATION, CA -- Hundreds of spectators braved soggy skies to watch professional and amateur riders and ropers compete for cash and prizes at the 6th Annual Open Ranch Rodeo on Saturday at the Morongo Indian Reservation.

For the first time, Morongo’s Open Ranch Rodeo served as a qualifying event for the storied Bob Feist Invitational (BFI) Open Team Roping in Reno. Erich Rogers, the 2017 World Champion Team Ropers from Round Rock, AZ, and Cesar Delacruz of Tucson, AZ took first place for the BFI qualifier, while Aaron Tsinigine, the 2015 PRCA World Champion Header from Tuba City, AZ, and Kyle Lockett of Visalia, CA., took the second BFI qualifier spot.

“Morongo’s annual rodeo is always a fun, family-friendly event that attracts amazing riders and ropers,” said Morongo Tribal Council Member Brian Lugo, the rodeo president. “As a qualifying event for the BFI Open Team Roping, the excitement was greater than ever this year.”

Dozens of riders and ropers competed for thousands of dollars in prize money in numerous events, including open and team roping, Calcutta, ribbon roping, and ranch-style steer stopping, among others. There were also competitions for younger riders, include mutton busting and youth barrel racing.

The Open Ranch Rodeo at Morongo was held at the Morongo Rodeo Grounds. The event is sponsored by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians and the Morongo Cultural Heritage Department.

— STORY AND PHOTOS SUBMITTED FOR PUBLICATION BY: Morongo Band of Mission Indians