Every year during the College National Finals Rodeo, the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association teams up with the Wyoming Special Olympics to create an event that is memorable for athletes from both organizations.

The morning starts off with registration. As the Special Olympians arrive they are asked if they would like to be paired up with a cowboy or cowgirl from the NIRA. Molly always asks for a cowboy, James always asks for a cowgirl (and usually gets 2) and Noah asks for and is teamed up with a bull-rider.

Athletes are turned loose to get a bite to eat, get a bandana and t-shirt and given the opportunity to get to know one another before the festivities begin.

The "Special Rodeo" consists or Roping and Riding but it is also a team builder and just a lot of fun.

Take a look at the action and the smiles from this mornings event.

At the conclusion of the morning rodeo, every Special Olympic Athlete receives a ticket for the Championship night of rodeo so they can cheer on their "own" cowboy or cowgirl.

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