PRORODEO Sports News - August 9, 2024

Betts said. “So, watching the crowd’s reactions, I think that most all of our people are very rodeo savvy. And if the judges don’t give a score that the crowd likes, the judges will be hearing about it.” The Caldwell Night Rodeo patrons separate into two groups for the five-day event: the Rowdies and the Civies. The Rowdies sit on the east side of the arena that faces the sun until it dips over the horizon just before 9 p.m. “Back when it got its name, it was the bleachers that were closer to the beer booth,” Betts said. “So yeah, they got rowdy and very vocal. “Talking to some of the judges that have been through here, they said if there was a rookie judge, they always made sure to stick him on the rowdy side to initiate him.” On the west side, the Civies benefit from a little more shade before sunset and are typically more reserved. “Historically, they’re much more calm, but even the Civies are starting to get fired up,” Betts said. “They love the competition between the Rowdies and the Civies, and it makes the whole evening so much fun.” The rivalry across the dirt gives the Caldwell Night Rodeo a spirited atmosphere forged in friendly competition. Betts has volunteered and worked for the committee in Caldwell for more than four decades. He started in ticket sales and always has an eye toward the crowd. “It’s intense,” Betts said. “They’re giving each other the raspberries, but every one of them has a big smile on their face. And that’s the beauty of it. “I used to tell people that if you’re not having a good time, I’m going to kick you out. People come here to have a great time in the nighttime air under the stars.” The Caldwell Night Rodeo also prides itself on giving back to the surrounding community. In 2008, the committee launched the CNR Strong Program, which raised more than $500,000 toward local cancer screenings for needy men and women. Theme nights throughout the week also generate funds for veteran services, youth scholarships and a host of other local charities. “Every time we hand out one of these checks…it makes you feel so good inside no matter how much work went into it,” Betts said. “It’s worthwhile.”

Hailey Rae photo Bareback rider Taylor Broussard captured the title at last year’s rodeo in Caldwell. Broussard earned $5,765 for his two rides.

Thomas Duncan photo Tim O’Connell is all smiles after his ride at the 2023 Caldwell Night Rodeo. The 100th anniversary of the rodeo will be held Aug. 13-17 this year.

ProRodeo Sports News 8/9/2024

ProRodeo.com

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