5th Annual Sheriff’s Rodeo honors service and community

By Camille DeVaul · Fri May 15 2026

New Sheriff’s Rodeo Foundation launches to benefit first responders across San Luis Obispo County

Photos by Chuck and Vikki Houck

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — Boots hit the dirt once again as the 5th Annual Sheriff’s Rodeo brought crowds from across the Central Coast together for a weekend celebrating western heritage, family traditions and the strong connection between law enforcement and the community.

What began just five years ago as a local event has quickly grown into one of San Luis Obispo County’s most anticipated events — growing each year to include more excitement and more importantly, more rodeo.

“As President of the Sheriff’s Rodeo Foundation, I couldn’t be more proud of the success of the 2026 rodeo and the continued growth of this event each year," said Chad Nicholson, president of the Sheriff’s Rodeo Foundation and San Luis Obispo County undersheriff. "From the new Friday night bull riding and nearly 100 vendors in the marketplace, to three outstanding country artists and a phenomenal rodeo finals, the weekend was an incredible showcase for our community. Most importantly, we remain committed to keeping the Sheriff’s Rodeo an affordable, family-friendly event that everyone can enjoy.”

This year’s rodeo also introduced the newly established Sheriff’s Rodeo Foundation, a nonprofit organization created to expand the event’s impact beyond the arena. The foundation’s mission is to raise funds that directly support first responders and frontline workers throughout San Luis Obispo County through specialized training, essential equipment, and critical resources.

Organizers said the values celebrated in rodeo — grit, resilience, teamwork and determination — mirror those demonstrated daily by first responders serving local communities.

“The values represented in the arena mirror the same qualities we see in those who serve in public safety, hard work, integrity, courage, resilience, and teamwork," Nicholson said. "Rodeo has always been about determination and grit, and those same traits are demonstrated daily by the first responders who dedicate their lives to keeping our communities safe.”

Throughout the weekend, spectators packed the stands to watch traditional rodeo events while enjoying live entertainment, vendors, and family-friendly activities. The rodeo grounds once again became a gathering place where longtime ranching traditions met community celebration.

The Sheriff’s Rodeo took place May 7-9 at the Paso Robles Event Center, bringing three days of western entertainment and rodeo action to the Central Coast. Festivities kicked off Thursday with a Western Marketplace before Friday night’s “Battle of the Bulls,” followed by a concert featuring country artist Casey Donahew with opening act Casey Anglin. Saturday’s rodeo performance continued the excitement with the rodeo finals and a concert featuring country artist Gunnar Latham.

This year’s rodeo featured a full slate of traditional events, including Hide Race Relay, Breakaway, Jr. Team Roping, Team Sorting, #10 Roping, Double Mugging, 2D Ribbon Roping, Sort & Rope, Mutton Bustin, Open Team Roping, Barrel Racing, and Bull Riding.

Equally important to organizers was the opportunity to strengthen relationships between residents and the men and women serving in public safety.

“The Sheriff’s Rodeo is also about community,” Nicholson said. “It is about neighbors coming together, families making memories, and celebrating the traditions that make the Central Coast such a special place to live.”

In celebration of both the rodeo’s fifth anniversary and the nation’s 250th anniversary, the Sheriff’s Rodeo Foundation also honored members of the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office who previously served in the United States Armed Forces.

Among those recognized was Hiruy “Mike” Gemechu, the Sheriff’s Office rangemaster, program manager, and reserve deputy, who retired from the U.S. Army as a Master Sergeant following more than 25 years of service. Gemechu served with the U.S. Army Special Operations Command and the 82nd Airborne Division and participated in operations including Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His military honors include the Bronze Star Medal and Army Commendation Medal with “V” device for valor.

Senior Deputy Bill Spears was also recognized for 21 years of service in the U.S. Army and Army National Guard, retiring as a Sergeant First Class. Spears completed more than 360 combat missions during two deployments to Iraq and received numerous commendations, including the Purple Heart and Combat Action Badge.

Correctional Deputy Angel “Manny” Torres, a retired U.S. Army Sergeant, was honored for his service during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he served as a convoy commander and patrolled more than 19,000 miles while supporting combat operations.

Organizers said the recognition highlighted the unique commitment shared by those who have served both their country and their local communities.

“These individuals represent a unique commitment to service — answering the call both to protect our country and to serve our local community," rodeo officials said. "Their dedication, sacrifice, and continued leadership reflect the values that define both military and public service.”

As the Sheriff’s Rodeo continues to grow, organizers say the event remains centered on bringing people together while investing in the safety and future of San Luis Obispo County.

“Your support allows us not only to host an unforgettable rodeo weekend, but also to give back in a way that directly benefits those serving on the front lines across our county,” Nicholson said.