SLIDESHOW: Thousands saddle up for sold out shows at Bill Picket Rodeo

by TSD Newsroom04/14/202404/24/2024

One of those Bronco-riding brothers. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Thousands of enthusiasts packed the Agricenter International Arena for two presentations of the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo on Saturday April 13!

Celebrating its 40th year in existence, the rodeo was a rootin’ tootin’ good time for all attendees — especially those who know the history of Bill Pickett and black cowboys in American history.

TSD Photojournalist Gary S. Whitlow caught some of the sights and sounds of the day . . . check these images out!

That’s a lot of bull right there. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

One of those Bronco-riding brothers. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

This event is called “bull dogging” and it was invented by none other than Bill Pickett himself, more than 100 years ago. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Memphis Mayor Paul Young — in his black hat — rode shotgun on a stagecoach into the rodeo. He later read a proclamation acknowledging the history of black cowboys. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

During a rousing performance of the Negro National Anthem “Lift Ev’ry Voice,” this cowgirl proudly charged around the arean floor with the African heritage flag on display. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Is this her first rodeo? Naptime for baby… (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Several cowgirls competed in the barrel racing competition at the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Calfs were roped and tied at the Bill Pickett Invitiational Rodeo on Saturday April 13, at Agricenter International.(Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

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