Photos by Joe Contreras, Latin Life Denver Media
There was a little bit of everything at this year’s National Western Stock Show’s 23rd Mexican Rodeo Extravagnaza. Several thousand people turned out for on a cold a January 8th night in Denver, Colorado to partake in the annual spectacle. This opening weekend was the second highest opening weekend attendance in Stock Show history. The audience was treated to a night filled with cultural pageantry. The Mexican Rodeo featured Mexican style bull riding, bareback riding, trick roping along with the daring Paso de la Muerte or “Death Jump.” all choreographed by Jerry Diaz, a fourth-generation champion charro. The extravaganza also featured a bull fighting exhibition along with a special performance by singer Sebastien De La Cruz. Colorado’s own Westerners along with Mariachis Sol de mi Tierra and Mexican dancers rounded the entertainment.
Charro Gerardo ‘Jerry’ Diaz is a fourth generation charro, continuing the traditions that originated with his great grandfather over 150 years ago. Jerry is recognized around the world for his expertise in horsemanship and dedication to the Charro traditions. He is a director and lifetime member of the National Western Stock Show which features his productions, The Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza and the Evening of Dancing Horses. In 2004 Jerry Diaz was inducted to the Texas Trail of Fame.
The Diaz family lives in New Braunfels, Texas, where they operate Three Mile Creek Ranch, a 50-acre horse operation. They host several presentations and clinics throughout the year for both private and public groups at their Indoor Arena.
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