Feast or famines are the risks undertaken when conducting an outdoor rodeo event in unpredictable west Texas weather. C. A. “Chili” Cole understood the concept when in 1954 he persuaded the San Angelo Fat Stock Show and Rodeo directors to organize a fall roping event. The event would prove successful and financially responsible, as it provided much needed revenue for the area, in the months after the annual spring stock show.
The original San Angelo Steer Roping and Branding was an immediate success as Cole persuaded 12 of the top steer ropers in the world to enter. It soon became one of the most prestigious steer and calf ropings. Cole served as chairman of the committee for 10 years and president from 1961-1963.
The event continued to grow as a jackpot calf roping and then match roping was added. In 1962, the event took the new name of San Angelo Roping Fiesta. Local cattleman and board member, Johnny Bonner of San Angelo, who served as president from 1967-1968, was instrumental in the additions to the grounds as well as the construction of the outdoor arena that is in use today.
Each year, a preliminary calf roping, with usually over 250 competitors, is held the previous day allowing the winners a coveted invitation to advance to the competition which is held before sold out crowds. A double mugging competition, steer roping, calf roping, and the match roping are the highlights for the weekend. A fine western trade show and dance are also held during the last weekend of October each year. This is a most exciting event to experience for any roping fan.
