Each year, the Ak-Chin Indian Community hosts Masik Tas or Birthday events in December to recognize the official organization of the community. This year offered many fun events including concerts/live traditional entertainment, a parade, and a carnival/funzone. But for rodeo aficionados, it was all about the rodeo events held December 9-11 at Ak-Chin Circle Field.

On Friday, the Ak-Chin Indian Community Masik Tas All Indian Jr. Rodeo began at 9 a.m., with junior events for native competitors. Kids up to age 17 competed in events that included sheep riding, dummy roping, goat tying, barrel racing, steer riding, and bull riding. The age divisions were: Buckaroos, age 5 and under; Pee Wee, ages 6-9; Junior Division, ages 10-13; and Senior Division, ages 14-17. Event winners received custom belt buckles made by Kendra Williams, Sterling on Steel. First place in Team Roping was Brandon Ben and Ty Romo. Blaine Redhorse and Kyle Romo claimed second place, and Shea Enos and Steve Romo placed third.

On Saturday, December 10, the Ak-Chin Masik Tas Bull Bash featured rodeo and riding events including open and novice bull riding, and what a thrill to watch. Event winners received custom belt buckles, and open bull riding champion Tustin Daye received a saddle and $1,000 as the grand prize.

Other events on Saturday included a team Wild Horse Race and Calf Dressing, a competition among participants from the Ak-Chin Indian Community departments. And the winner is, UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle, what a fun team and congratulations!

Sunday, December 11 was the final day of the rodeo, with roping events including team roping. Winners, along with the #5 and under roper and the #6 and over roper, received high money and new saddles. Other fun on Sunday at the arena included the Ak-Chin Masik Tas “mannequin challenge”, where riders and their horses stay as still as possible for as long as they can. The mannequin challenge is known throughout the United States and is being shared on all social media from families, to events, to schools and etc. It’s outrageously fun!

Once again, the Masik Tas Rodeo offered thrills and fun for all who participated and attended! Congratulations to all winners and participants.