By Sara Martin
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo—also known as the “heartbeat of the Southwest”—has galloped through four different venues since its establishment in 1931; its latest stable is Reliant Park. In recent years, the event has reined in about 2 million visitors, who flock to watch champion cowboys and cowgirls compete in the world’s richest regular-season PRCA rodeo.

Contestants in this year’s competition will be riding and roping for a total purse of more than $1.3 million.

Outside the ring, crowds cheer on an impressive list of entertainers—guests have included legends Gene Autry, Charley Pride, Elvis Presley, Roy Rogers, and George Strait. Last year’s Hannah Montana concert drew a record-breaking 73,291 fans to the stadium.

Proceeds from the rodeo go toward scholarships for students in Texas. Last year, the show’s educational commitment exceeded $10.6 million.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will be at Reliant Park from March 3-22. Visit www.rodeohouston.com for details.