Giddy Up Round Up sees fourth year of adaptive rodeos in Kanab

KANAB — Smiles, laugh­ter, horses and community filled the arena as approxi­mately 50 participants and their families gathered for the inaugural Giddy Up Round Up, marking the fourth year of adap­tive rodeo opportunities in Kanab.

Photo by Stacey Cox.

While this was the first year under the Giddy Up Round Up name, the event continued a growing tradi­tion of creating meaningful western experiences for individuals with disabili­ties. Participants enjoyed a morning designed to ensure that every person who entered the gate felt welcomed, encouraged, included and celebrated.

Photos by Stacey Cox.

The day began with a flag ceremony, national anthem and prayer before participants explored a variety of activities, in­cluding the Patriot Trail Ride horseback riding ex­perience, Barrel Buddies, the Mighty Bucking Bull, stick horse barrel racing, Dr. Buck’s Roping Corral, the Bullseye Boot Toss, the Wild Cow Milking Chal­lenge and Crosby’s Play Corral.

Horseback riding re­mained the most popular attraction, with dedicated horse handlers, side walk­ers and volunteers helping participants experience the joy and confidence that comes from being in the saddle.

Behind the scenes, doz­ens of volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly. Their efforts, combined with the support of sponsors, com­munity organizations and local businesses, helped make the day a success.

Heartfelt gratitude to Kane County, Dark Sky RV, Kanab Hideouts, Kane County Events, Patriot Welding, Brown Box, Taro Coffee Bar, the Palumbo Family, Ron and Clau­dia Thomas, Red Dirt Fellowship, Rodeo With Purpose, rodeo royalty representatives and the many additional donors, volunteers and supporters who contributed their time, resources and encouragement.

For many partici­pants and families, the day was about much more than games and activities. It was an op­portunity to build con­fidence, create friend­ships and experience the western lifestyle in an environment where every ability was celebrated.

With another suc­cessful adaptive rodeo in the books and the first Giddy Up Round Up officially launched, organizers are already looking forward to con­tinuing the tradition in the years to come.

“One arena. All abili­ties. Cowboy spirit with no limits.”