20th Annual Rodeo Happening This Weekend

The Panaewa Stampede will mosey its way into Panaewa’s Equestrian Center near the zoo, this Saturday February 18, and Sunday February 19. Impressive horsemanship will be on display with, but not limited to: roping, cow handling, steer lassoing and “double mugging.”

The paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboy made his appearance in 1793, when King Kamehameha I was gifted with a herd of cattle. The Spanish vaqueros were brought in to teach the local boys how to work and round up the cattle and utilize them as the precious resource they had become.

This event will feature bronc and bull riding, as well as female and youth events. There will also be a “bull run,” that the spectators may participate in. Food and other concessions will be available at the rodeo for purchase. Rodeo clown, J.J. Harrison will entertain the audience and keep the animals busy.

Pre-sale tickets are $5 and are available at Coldwell Banker Day Lum. Or, call 959-8932. Visit www.hawaiirodeostampede.com for more information. Otherwise, admission is $7 at the gate. Children under the age of 12 get in free. This event will take place at the Equestrian Center on Highway 11, going out of Hilo and toward Volcano near the Panaewa zoo.