Special Rodeo

January 9, 2026

Special Rodeo Day: A Celebration of Inclusion and Heart

On Friday, January 9, 2026, contestants from both D1 and D3 proudly hosted a Special Rodeo for students with special needs during the annual D1 Shoot Out Rodeo—and it was truly an unforgettable day.

Three buses full of students arrived, joined by many more who came in vans and personal vehicles. From the moment they stepped onto the grounds, the arena was filled with excitement, smiles, and encouragement.

Each participating student received a Special Rodeo t-shirt, bracelet, and back number, making them official competitors for the day. With the help of our high school rodeo contestants, they headed to the arena floor to experience the thrill of rodeo firsthand.

Students participated in a variety of activities, including roping, barrel racing, pole bending, and a bucking machine.

One of the biggest highlights was meeting Biscuit, the pony, who patiently stood by while students petted and brushed him, creating calm, joyful moments that many won’t soon forget.

What made this event truly special was the exceptional level of engagement and care shown by our rodeo contestants. They stepped up as mentors, cheerleaders, and friends—offering encouragement, laughter, and hands-on support to every student. Their professionalism, kindness, and enthusiasm reflected the very best of our association.

This Special Rodeo was more than an event—it was a reminder of the power of inclusion, community, and the impact young leaders can have. We are incredibly proud of our contestants and grateful to everyone who helped make this day such a success. Hats off to D1 parent volunteer, Hayley Moyles, for spearheading this great event.

Scroll through the photos below to relive the smiles, high-fives, and unforgettable moments from this amazing day.

A special thanks to our official photographer, Crystal Amen, for capturing the moments of this event.