It was a fast-paced week in Oakdale with rodeo events up and down the schedule. There were activities both inside and outside of the Oakdale Saddle Club Rodeo Grounds  and the weather provided near perfect conditions, with sunny skies and light breezes. From the festive – and often rowdy – Cowgirl Luncheon to the coronation of a new Oakdale Rodeo Queen, Easter morning Cowboy Church and the popular Saturday morning parade downtown, there literally was something for everyone to enjoy. Perhaps enjoying it most was Brushton ‘Brush’ Minton, out of Wittier Springs, California as he earned the coveted title of All-Around Cowboy for the 2023 event. Minton earned over $6,700 and competed in three events, tie-down roping, steer wrestling and team roping.

Photos include Jordan Spears of Redding, shown aboard Hell Hound in Sunday afternoon bull riding action. Prior to the competition, the Grand Entry featured plenty of pageantry, including the Oakdale Saddle Club presenting the colors. And it was a tough day for Oakdale’s Cody Russell, who is shown looking on as the arena bullfighters get ready to wrangle Sneaky Pete, who bucked Russell off short of the 8-second requirement.

Leader Photos By Marg Jackson