Morongo Celebrates Ranching Heritage at 21st Annual Rodeo

BANNING, CA – Amateur and professional ropers and riders competed for cash prizes at the 21st Annual Morongo Indian Cowboy Ranch Rodeo, held at the newly rebuilt rodeo arena and grounds on the Morongo Indian Reservation. The free event drew riders and competitors from across the country for contests including open roping, team roping, Calcutta, ribbon roping and team branding. Youth competitions included mutton-busting and barrel racing. Morongo Tribal Council Member Ryan Martin, who serves as rodeo president, said the annual event honors the tribe’s history of cattle ranching on the reservation, a tradition that began generations ago and continues…