Boot Scootin’ Boogie Days And 4th Annual Exceptional Rodeo

It’s been a very exciting weekend for Lake Havasu City residents with special needs. For four years in a row, the exceptional rodeo has been creating amazing memories for event attendees to cherish for a lifetime.

Over $25,000 was raised during the Hoedown Dinner Friday evening. Rick Powell/RiverScene

Milemarkers and Hoofbeats from Heaven Inc., have partnered to bring the community a weekend full of fun out at the SARA Park Rodeo Grounds. Thursday evening featured an entertaining talent show which took place indoors because of the high winds and dust storms. Friday night’s Hoedown Dinner featured a social hour and dinner catered by Cha Bones, as well as silent auctions and raffles. The money raised at the Hoedown Dinner benefits the many wonderful programs at Milemarkers. Mentally, physically and emotionally challenged people enjoyed the variety of rodeo events that provided both mental and physical stimulation.

Milemarkers staff pose for a photo at the dinner. Rick Powell/RiverScene

Saturday’s events were kicked off with a pancake breakfast that led to spring fair booths, and horseback rides around the arena for the kids.

“It’s such an awesome experience for these kids, and it’s a great way to bring the community together for a great cause,” said Maria Valderez, who attended the event with her son.

Charlie O’Hara rides a horse during the 4th Annual Exceptional Rodeo. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

The special needs contestants battled it out in competitive events around the barrels and poles, played tons of games, and participated in a variety of fun activities including arts and crafts. The 2017 Special People Like You Rodeo Queen and a real cowboy were there to pose for photos with attendees, while the onsite food vendors kept the fun going throughout the day.

“Opportunities like these for disabled and special needs people in our city to come together and interact are rare, so when they happen, it’s really special,” said attendee Melissa Rich.

A parade is led throughout the rodeo arena by Lisa Boody. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Participants competed in stick horse races, dummy calf roping, and enjoyed face painting with their friends and families on a sunny Saturday.

Many agreed it was a weekend to remember for everyone who attended the Boot Scootin’ Boogie Days and Exceptional Rodeo! Over $25,000 was raised from the Hoedown.