ON DECK: Cowboy 101

I wouldn't call myself much of a cowboy, but this weekend's Yuma Jaycees Silver Spur wasn't my first rodeo.

It was the first rodeo I've ever covered though, and it was an interesting experience to say the least.

I went to school in Ellensburg, Wash. It was what some might call a, “Cow Town,” and it smelled just like it sounded.

The moment I walked through the gates Friday night I was whirled back to a world of fragrances I had long forgotten, but thankfully your nose adjusts rather quickly, because nostalgia can only excuse the stench for so long.

I'm not a fan of the sport of rodeo, so even though I'd researched it a bit going in, I was still a little overwhelmed by the experience. Thankfully there was plenty of wonderful employees more than willing to teach me the ropes.

Finally, the last lesson I learned from Friday's adventure was I am sure glad that I am a human and not a cow or horse. Ouch.