by Walena Logan

Recently at the George Ingalls Equestrian Event Center (GIEEC) located in Norco history was made. Charlie Sampson, the first and only African-American to win the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) World Championship Bull Rider Title hosted his first rodeo at the GIEEC. Sampson, who won his World Championship Bull Rider Title back in 1982 looks as if he can still compete despite being retired.

This event was more then just a rodeo. It was a celebration of western pride, a tribute to fallen cowboys and cowgirls, hard work, and heritage. The surrounding atmosphere was full of excitement from cowboys and cowgirls dressed in their fancy attire from boots, denim, and hats, bringing the iconic western spirit to life. Spectators were not just at a rodeo, they could feel it!

As one attendee who had just purchased their ticket to enter the Charlie Sampson Rodeo, he tilted his head back and let out a loud Yeeeeeee-haaaaw!!!! The crowd turned around and all their faces lit up, with smiles and excitement. It was clear that people were not just here for a show but a shared experience.

When asking Charlie the eve before the rodeo how he felt in regards to his upcoming event, he jokingly said, “Now I understand how it feels for a mom getting ready to give birth.”  This rodeo was his baby, a dream finally ready to come to life.

Bringing the GIEEC venue to life took a week of tireless work by a dedicated, family oriented team. They set out to carefully prepare and transform the GIEEC into a full-scale arena. They made sure the arena was perfectly prepped for the animals, sponsors, media, vendors, and spectators. This included everything from tilling the dirt, to making sure the signage and stalls were in place.

The event featured adrenaline-pumping bull riding, lightening-speed barrel runs, skilled roping and western performances that lit up the arena bringing excitement and cheering across the venue. These performances showed the skill, strength, and passion of each contestant.

In the end, the most important part that stood out was the unity that was created. Whether it was the crowd cheering together, or the excitement, smiles, handshaking, and high-fives going around. It didn’t matter where you were from, everyone was a part of the Charlie Sampson’s Rodeo family on that particular day.