There are two types of events in the rodeo; the Roughstock events and the Timed Events. The Roughstock events are the most common thought of when speaking of the rodeo, they include events such as: Bareback, Saddle Bronc, and Bull Riding. While the Timed events include: Steer Roping, Tie Down Roping, Barrel Racing, and Steer Wrestling.
In roughstock events, a contestant must stay on the animal for eight seconds while using one hand to make a qualified ride and his score is determined not only by his performance but that of the animals as well. If a contestant touches the animal at anytime with their free hand, they are automatically disqualified.
In timed events, their goal is to post the fastest time in their event. In steer wrestling and roping events, calves and steers are allowed a head start. If the contestants go before they’re allowed to, there is automatically a ten-second penalty added to their time.
The Bareback event is when a contestant rides a bucking horse, without a saddle. While the saddle bronc is the opposite, during the saddle bronc event the contestant has to “spur” the horse and stay on the horse for a full 8-seconds. The bull riding event is the most popular rodeo event. The contestant sits on the back of the bull and holds on with one hand while the bull attempts to buck them off.
The Mesquite Rodeo arena has been nominated multiple times by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA) for Rodeo of the Year. The rodeo dirt surface was also recognized as “best dirt” by the PRCA. The dirt can be compacted to form a concrete-like surface for many other events such as concerts, MMA fighting, and monster truck shows, all while still being able to be loose enough to have rodeos on.
Running every Saturday night from June 2nd until August 25th, The Resistol Arena has many upcoming special nights and events. Veterans and Active Duty service members get into the rodeo for free on June 23rd, First Responders get in free on July 7th and Teachers get in free on August 11th. The arena will be having dollar hot dog nights and many other events throughout the summer season.