New Mexico Rodeo Council College/High School Challenge

I'm using this blog as a place to post the photo essays that I'm doing for the month of November (got the idea from the DPC thread, but mainly for my own practice since I'll need at least one super polished one for my portfolio).

Here's the first one I put together, to start it off - I shot it before the rodeo started on Friday night. I was covering the rodeo for the paper and also needed a 'wild art' shot, so I went early and shot the people getting ready for it.




Competitors relax behind the chutes before the New Mexico Rodeo Council College/High School Challenge at McGee Park on Friday.

Clay Geronimo of New Mexico State University talks to another rider as he straps on his glove. Geronimo later scored 72 in the Bareback competition.

The last light of the day streams through the dusty air in the stadium as competitors prepare for the rodeo.

Steers destined for the steer roping/wrestling competitions enjoy a snack of hay before the rodeo.

Bethany Whitley, of Blanco, brushes a horse's mane to prepare it for the rodeo.

Competitors circle the arena during the ceremonies before the start of the rodeo.