 There's something about Texas that makes it a world of its own -- the big open spaces and the crystal clear skies, the artesian springs and rolling Hill Country, the gentle meadows and fertile valleys. Then there's all the rich history and heritage -- the Alamo, San Jacinto, the King Ranch and the famous Southfork Ranch. Texas is known for its oil fields, cattle ranches, rodeos and cowpokes.
In fact, it's the ranching way of life, the legend of the American cowboy, that is the foundation for the annual Cowboy Roundup USA, staged each June in Amarillo, one of the largest gatherings of Western Heritage in the nation. It's a full weekend of Rodeos, a massive western gear show, and the World Championship Chuck Wagon Roundup.
Cowboy Roundup, USA, now in its twentieth year, is dedicated to preserving ranching heritage of Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle. The organization endeavors to educate the general public, in the spirit of ranching ancestry and the lifestyle of the great American Cowboy, by hosting the annual celebration.
 In addition to the Coors Ranch Rodeo, Amarillo is the site of the World Championship Chuck wagon Roundup. The chuck wagon is said to have originated in the late 1860's when Charlie Goodnight, an Amarillo area rancher, fitted an ex-Army wagon with a chuckbox and cooking gear.
Competition participants will cook traditional cowboy fare and will be judged on flavor and appearance of food, authenticity of restored and replica wagons, and completeness of camp. This year there will be a cooking competition for the younger set as well in hopes of keeping the tradition alive. A few goodhearted crews are planning to stay over and cook a special breakfast for the public to enjoy on Sunday morning before the traditional cowboy church service.
Cowboy Roundup, USA believes that the cowboy's soul mate is at his side, his trusty steed, doing the same work he does. Therefore the event spotlights a special activity this year, the first World Championship Cowgirl Ranch Rodeo to celebrate the contribution of women in ranching.
While the life of a cowboy has changed quite dramatically since the time of Charlie Goodnight, the nature of the man who is a real cowboy remains much the same. Cowboy Roundup, USA hopes to honor these men who are dedicated to a way of life that often affords only small to moderate financial gain. Rather, cowboys are grateful to live a simple life of hard work, fresh air, and family.
For more information and a full schedule of events, visit the official Cowboy Roundup USA Web site.
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Rio Grande Valley
