Wild Ride: The History of Western Rodeo
The History and Lore of RodeoJoel H. BernsteinWild RideRide 'em cowboy! Wild Ride tells the story of rodeo, from the earliest vaqueros in Mexico to the mystique of the cowboy and his place in Western folklore to the fast-paced, multimillion dollar sport of today.With vibrant photographs and vintage illustrations, this book is a rich history and photographic record full of detail and stories of the most important events, broncs, men, and women in rodeo.Enjoy the story of the early cattle drives, the Wild West shows, the organization of the Cowboys' Turtle Association, and finally the formation of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). The book covers the National Finals Rodeo (the Super Bowl of the sport), the Women's Professional Rodeo Association, the formation of the National Bull Riders Association, and much more. It's jam-packed with information, facts, and interesting lore.Experience firsthand the energy, electricity, danger, and exhilaration of the rodeo world through this rich and entertaining book that highlights the most important moments and people in rodeo history.Joel H. Bernstein has been a college professor, writer, bareback rider, cowboy, and rancher in Wyoming, Montana, New Mexico, and Arizona for more than forty-five years. He has been involved in rodeo over those years as a contestant, college rodeo coach, producer, and writer. In addition, he was president of three major western associations. Joel twice judged the Miss Rodeo Montana pageant and served two terms on the New Mexico State Veterinary Grievance Committee. He lives with his wife, Gail, on their ranch overlooking the historic San Rafael Valley near Patagonia, Arizona.Cover photo © 2007 Jennifer Blais