Makawao Stampede: 110-year family tradition thrives on Maui

MAKAWAO (HawaiiNewsNow) – As America celebrates its 250th birthday, a 110-year tradition on Maui is thriving.

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The annual Fourth of July Makawao Stampede is under way at the Oskie Rice Arena.

A total of 220 contestants are competing throughout the weekend, drawing participants from every Hawaiian island as well as Arizona, California, Texas and Oklahoma. Ages range from 2 to 75 years old.

A family tradition spanning generations

The event carries deep family roots for some competitors.

Contestant Daniel Miranda is a fifth-generation paniolo on Maui, and the arena itself is named after his great-grandfather, Oskie Rice.

“I go to rodeos all across the country now for college and pros, and your hometown rodeo is probably the most nerve-wracking rodeo you go to,” Miranda said. “I was in Casper, Wyoming for the College National Finals Rodeo, and I think I get more nervous at the short go (finals) here than I did at the short go to win a world title.”

Events and entertainment

The weekend lineup includes Bull Riding, Bare Back Bronc Riding, Double Mugging, Match Barrel Racing, Team Roping, Steer Wrestling and Poʻo Wai U — a rodeo event unique to Hawaiʻi. A bull bash is scheduled for Friday night. Food vendors, activities and music are also part of the weekend.

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Event organizer Morag Miranda said the crowd response drives the event’s mission.

“My favorite part is grand entry and the start of the rodeo,” Morag Miranda said. “When I see the bleachers filled with spectators that are cheering and yelling and screaming for the bucking horses and the bulls and the cowboys, and just having the fans be excited and see their local cowboys … just that excitement for rodeo. It really makes my heart feel good that the future of ranching, our agricultural community, our culture is in good hands.”

Five-time world champion Rob Smets said the event has grown in scale and quality over the decades.

“A lot of top quality cowboys and cowgirls right here,” Smets said. “You’re going to see good stuff when you come to the Makawao Stampede, and it’s grown so much. New grandstands, new arena, and the people here have worked very hard at bringing a first-class event to Maui.”

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Tickets can be purchased here.