Raising Cowboys and Cowgirls in The Heart of Silicon Valley

Sofia Claire singing the National Anthem at this year's 2022 Woodside Junior Rodeo

When you hear “Silicon Valley” you may think of Facebook, Google, and other tech companies. Your mind may paint a picture of highrise buildings and busy cities, but let me tell you about the Silicon Valley I know and love. 

Woodside California is a historic town located in the heart of Silicon Valley, 25 minutes from Google Headquarters. Woodside was home to many small ranches in the 1880s, it is now home to many individuals who want to keep the western spirit alive. Woodside consists of a horse park and many tails to take your 4 legged friends for a ride. This city has deep western roots which are being preserved by The Mounted Patrol of San Mateo County.  MPSMC  has been “supporting western values since 1942”. The Mounted Patrol was established following the Pearl Harbor attack to protect San Mateo County’s coastline which was only accessible on horseback. 

Photos from https://www.mpsmc.org/

This past Fourth of July the Mounted Patrol of Woodside California hosted their 70th Junior Rodeo. This rodeo is for juniors ages 6 to 18 to participate. There are classic rodeo events like barrel racing, pole bending, roping, tying, and steer wrestling. This fourth of July rodeo is the only rodeo in San Mateo county. This rodeo is a place for juniors to participate and showcase their rodeo skills. It is a great time for family and friends to get together and have a good time. I don't know about you but I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my 4th of July than with a hot dog in my hand watching some team roping!

By Jacqueline