Southwestern International PRCA Rodeo returns to the County Coliseum

The 84th Southwest International Professional Cowboy Association Rodeo continued Saturday at the El Paso County Coliseum.

Bareback bronco riding, steer wrestling and tie-down roping are just a few of the events being featured.

Cowboys and rodeo organizers say the events weren’t created for show, but rather borne out of practical need.

Injured rodeo bull rider James Wyles told ABC-7 it’s the rodeo clowns, also known as bullfighters, who can really save bullriders’ lives after those professional cowboys are thrown from the 2,000 pound bulls.

“Once that eight-second buzzer goes off, you release down and release your rope, get slung through the air, you lose all concept. And once you hit the ground, you lose sight of that bull for a split second. The bullfighter steps in their and grabs the bull by the horns, takes him away from you, takes him off you so you can get up,” Wyles said.

Tickets for this weekend’s rodeo can be bought at the Coliseum box office. Prices start at $12.50.