Oakdale is the Cowboy Capital of the World, and the future of the rodeo circuit begins at a young age. For those who dream of being in the rodeo arena, they often start off competing in Mutton Busting. Mutton Busting is for three- to seven-year-olds who ride sheep and try to hang on for six seconds. This event is similar to bull riding or saddle bronc as the object is to hang on until the whistle sounds.

One of the more recent mutton busting events took place at the Merced County Fair in June where local youths competed in the event. Oakdale’s own Trinity Miranda competed there and has been competing in various rodeos throughout the state. Miranda and all other mutton busters earned a prize at the end of the Merced County Fair for competing. The next big event will be held at the Rowell Ranch Pro Rodeo in Hayward on Sunday, Aug. 6.