Maui is preparing for a cherished tradition. The Makawao Stampede begins on Friday July 5th and continues through the holiday weekend at the Oskie Rice Event Center in Makawao. Since its inception in 1956, the Stampede has attracted multitudes of spectators and competitors. This year, contenders are coming from other islands, the mainland, and as far away as Australia to compete in a variety of events.
Attendees will experience the thrill of barrel racing, where horse and rider attempt to run a cloverleaf pattern in the fastest time around preset barrels. Jayci Jay Rice, the 2023 Makawao Stampede Match Barrel Champion, explained, “Running barrels produces an amazing connection with my horse. My adrenaline rush goes straight to my horse and together we give it our all. There’s nothing like it!”
Team roping, another favorite, involves teamwork between two skilled ropers, a header and a heeler, and their horses, as they work together to rope a steer in the fastest time possible. The Bull Bash, one of the most exhilarating events, involves a rider getting on a bucking bull and attempting to stay mounted for eight seconds while touching the bull with only their riding hand.
“This takes enormous strength, determination, and true grit,” said Noah Foti, a Makawao Stampede bull riding champion, owner of Rowdy Outdoors, and founder of the new nonprofit, Rowdy Rodeo. “I love the competition and the comradery at the Stampede. You can feel all the love and support that our community brings to make it all happen. These events, and others, showcase the skill and courage required in the world of rodeo.”
At Rowdy Outdoors, Foti provides the best gear for Hawaiʻi’s athletes. His new nonprofit, Rowdy Rodeo, aims to give underprivileged keiki riding opportunities that are not available anywhere else in Hawaiʻi. “I would like to give our youth a chance to ride horses and compete in rodeo events by offering something I wish was available when I was young.”
For rodeo information and tickets, go to www.etix.com or www.oskiericeeventcenter.com.
This year’s Makawao Stampede has something for everyone, including sheep riding for the keiki! Noah Foti, Champion Bull Rider Rowdy Outdoors and Rowdy Rodeo
