Rodeo 101: Saddling Up for the Rodeo Festivities

Yesterday, Rancho Mission Viejo residents had the opportunity to get the 411—or Rodeo 101, as we like to call it—on this weekend’s 17th Annual Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo!

Grab Life by the Horns

Conducted at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano, the #RMVRodeo will produce some of the finest rodeo action in the nation as “the best of the best” in rodeo compete for $175,000 in prize money. This Saturday and Sunday, August 26th and 27th, the stage will be set for Saddle Bronc, Bareback Riding, Tie-Down Roping, Steer Wrestling, Bull Riding, Team Roping and much more!

More than 9,000 Rodeo fans are expected to attend over the weekend. In addition to the excitement taking place in the arena, attendees will have access to nearly 60 vendor booths and activities for the whole family. Attractions include a beer garden, live music, mechanical bull riding, official rodeo gear and pony rides. Bring your whole family out to experience all the fun and excitement!

Getting the 101

Guests started their morning off with breakfast burritos, juice and coffee, compliments of RanchLife, and were welcomed to the event by Lissa Freese, VP of Ranch Operations at Rancho Mission Viejo.

Chairman and CEO of Rancho Mission Viejo Tony Moiso shared the history of the Rancho Mission Viejo landholdings, which have been under the stewardship of the O’Neill/Moiso family since 1882. Mr. Moiso explained how new homes on Rancho Mission Viejo help continue the legacy of the cowboys, vaqueros and ranching for generations to come.

Next, Mr. Moiso introduced the Ranch’s #1 Cowboy, Gilbert Aguirre, Executive VP of Ranch Operations, who shared how the Rodeo got started, and how the Rodeo proceeds continue to help the community each year. Over the course of the last 16 years, $1.9 million in Rodeo proceeds have been donated to local charities. This year’s beneficiaries are the J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center in San Juan Capistrano, CHOC at Mission Hospital and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley. More was shared about the Rodeo Riders, Roping, judging, and everything guests would be experiencing at Rodeo 101.

Guests had their first chance to view some Team Roping firsthand—pretty exciting! Mr. Aguirre’s grandson was in the arena showcasing Team Roping, and after the Roping ended, Reno Rosser gave a tour of the bullpens, while explaining the importance of the cattle’s genealogy.

Mr. Moiso’s grandson, Lance, was on horseback helping move steers and he’ll be riding in the Rodeo’s Opening Ceremony this Saturday and Sunday. And, because it is such a family affair, Mr. Moiso’s granddaughter, Daisy will be singing the National Anthem at the Rodeo this weekend! Mr. Aguirre’s granddaughter, Tara, has been a big part of the Rodeo Committee, providing social media and marketing support.

The morning ended with guests mingling and giveaways of Rodeo tickets, bandanas, and a drawing for books signed by Mr. Moiso. Most of all, residents left with a greater sense of what the Rodeo is all about, and what to expect at this weekend’s fantastic event!

Where It All Began

The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo’s Mission has been simple: to help preserve rodeo tradition, pay tribute to the sport and the heritage of the land, and to raise funds for deserving charities. Today, we are honored to say that this Annual Two Day Rodeo has lassoed over $1.9 million for the benefit of local San Juan Capistrano charities.

Carrying on the Cowboy Tradition

Rancho Mission Viejo remains committed to the preservation of the cowboy way of life. Carrying on the cowboy tradition of “passing the hat” in support of a sick child or needed friend, proceeds from the Rodeo benefit local charities, such as Shea Therapeutic Riding Center, CHOC Children’s at Mission Hospital, San Juan Capistrano’s Boy’s and Girl’s Club, and Justin Sports Medicine.