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!
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- That’s a lot of bull right there. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)
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- One of those Bronco-riding brothers. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)
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- 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)
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- 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)
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- 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)
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- Is this her first rodeo? Naptime for baby… (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)
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- Several cowgirls competed in the barrel racing competition at the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)
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- 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)
