On Sunday, the Silver Spurs Arena was filled with joy and laughter as it hosted its cherished Special Rodeo, an event designed to bring the rodeo experience to children with special needs. This remarkable day allowed nearly 100 very special kids and their families to delve into the world of rodeo, engaging in activities such as bull riding, calf roping, horseback riding, and even the opportunity to pair up with Rodeo Queens from across North America. Adding to the excitement, the Osceola Sheriff’s Office provided tours in one of their SWAT vehicles, ensuring that each participant felt like a true winner by awarding them their own rodeo trophy.

The inception of the Silver Spurs Special Rodeo traces back to the 1980s, thanks to Fran McLaughlin’s vision of making the rodeo accessible to children with special needs. After a hiatus, the event was revitalized in 2005 by Bridget Coggins and Sara Berlinsky, coinciding with the construction of a new arena at Osceola Heritage Park.

Special Rodeo
Special Rodeo
Special Rodeo
Special Rodeo
Special Rodeo
Special Rodeo
Special Rodeo
Special Rodeo
Special Rodeo

Sara Berlinsky, the Silver Spurs Big Boss, reflects on the event’s impact: “Seeing the joy and excitement in the kids’ eyes as they experience their own rodeo firsthand is truly why we do this in the Silver Spurs Arena. It’s a reminder of why we do what we do.”

Ask any member of the Silver Spurs Riding Club which of the rodeos they put on is their favorite, and the answer is always the same… it’s the Special Rodeo, a testament to the profound effect it has on both the children involved and the community at large.

The Silver Spurs Rodeo, having just celebrated its 152nd event to record-breaking crowds, looks forward to its next rodeo on May 31 and June 1, continuing a tradition of community, compassion, and rodeo excitement.