Salinas rodeo ropes in locals, visitors with Western charm

The California Rodeo Salinas opened its gates for a weekend packed with events.

Locals and visitors roamed the grounds in the early evening light as tractors prepared the riding surface for competitors. In addition to the classic horse parade and bull riding, guests had the option of carnival rides and games for kids.

The first event of the weekend was the children's stick horse race. Children as young as 3 years old brought their favorite stick horse toy to gallop along side each other for prizes.

Cayden Scott of Visalia came out to the rodeo to compete in his first stick horse race at the tender age of 3. His father Clay, a 35-year team roping veteran, was happy to visit Salinas.

What to expect: California Rodeo Salinas anticipating 'record crowds' this year

"It's really kid- and family-friendly here and patriotic," he said.

Joseph Dominguez and his 3-year-old son Santino are Salinas locals with a family history at the rodeo.

"My cousin previously won calf dressing," Dominguez said. "My younger one is competing now."

It's not just family that brought Dominguez and his son out this year.

"The cowboys and action," Dominguez said. "He has been talking about it all day. He's so excited and it's really just fun."

Though some folks come from all over California to compete and enjoy the Salinas Rodeo, there are others that travel from afar to seek out the community.

For locals, the Salinas rodeo is a treasured memory. Maria Abundiz Ortiz and her daughter attended opening night. Over the years, Ortiz has developed some favorites, but her love for it all remains quite simple.

"I love the horses and the saddle bronc," she said. "But everything is very beautiful and alive with entertainment, people and everything."

Last year, the event raised $375,000 that went toward local scholarships.

The California Rodeo Salinas will continue through the weekend, ending on Sunday. A full event lineup and tickets are available at carodeo.com.

This article originally appeared on Salinas Californian: California Rodeo Salinas opens for weekend packed with pro events