Challenge Rodeo is for everyone

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (Wyoming News Now) - On Wednesday, the Challenge Rodeo was held at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Arena, and this amazing event was held for some amazing kids.

Aviyonce Rose Williams has had Spina Bifida since birth. She’s had four operations to correct issues, the latest on her legs.

“This is the highlight for a lot of these participants lives,” said Will Luna, Challenge Rodeo Coordinator- CFD.

She couldn’t attend previous challenge rodeo events due to surgeries over the last two years.

But today, her wish came true. She got to be like every other kid.

“My God, it meant the world! She’s been so excited, and my heart just bleeds for these kids,” said Wendi Henderson, Aviyonce’s Grandma.

Williams got to do what she loved most in the world.

“I rode a real horse, and I got to pet horses,” said Willams.

What was your favorite part about today?

“Riding the horse ...and I’m gonna ride it again,” said Williams.

“She’s gonna talk to Grandpa about a horse,” said Henderson.

For 27 years, the Challenge Rodeo has been a special needs kid’s rodeo that pairs 60 kids with volunteer buddies to participate in modified rodeo events.

“She’s determined to do everything,” said Henderson.

The Challenge Rodeo partners with CFD, the Concessions Committee, volunteers and Laramie County School District 1.

“We just want to remind everybody that rodeo is for everybody, and there is a place for everybody out here in this arena and that we couldn’t do this without their help,” said Luna. “It’s a lot of hard work, but we do it for those smiles, and we walk away just knowing that we made a difference in somebody’s life today.”

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