Here we are, Robert and I are hitting Rock Bottom. Yep, we are going to the Rock Bottom Chuck Wagon Races again. This event gets bigger and bigger every year, and it’s even in the middle of nowhere!
Over 5,000 participants and spectators are expected to diverge onto the ranch near Green Forest, AR this Memorial Day weekend. Nine years ago, afraid of losing their beautiful land in Northwest Arkansas, Mike and Lou Fowler, planned a little Chuck Wagon Race event to raise funds. That little event has grown to be one big weekend where not only Chuck Wagons race, but there’s a rodeo every night, trail rides, barrel racing, pasture roping, cowboy mounted shooting, and even a porta potty race!
With all the vendors, food, camping, and entertainment, the Fowler’s land becomes home to a bustling little city for the weekend. In past years, Robert and I just go for a day or so, watch a few events and take a few photos. This year, Robert has been asked to be the official photographer of the event. He’ll be providing all the photos for their future promotional efforts.
Wow, what a big job, but exciting at the same time. Robert says he is certainly venturing out of his comfort zone to take on such a big project. He doesn’t want to have regrets and turn away such a great assignment, so he’s going for it!
Can you guess who his assistant will be? Yep, little ‘ole me. I have a feeling I’ll be doing a lot of running around, note taking, and uploading photos to the computer for some editing. After all, it’s a great opportunity to have some photos available right on the spot to sell.
Although I live in the country, I don’t have much experience with horses, or any kind of livestock for that matter. My first time even on a horse was just last year, and Robert’s dad pretty much just walked around holding the reigns. I was terrified to take the reigns myself. Needless to say, that experience gives Robert some teasing material. Perhaps someday I’ll learn and enjoy trail rides. Until then, I’ll enjoy watching on the sidelines.
Five full days working to get every great shot we can and tent camping at night, I have a feeling a very long HOT shower will feel fabulous when we return home.
We’ll be there for the entire event. If you happen to be in the neighborhood May 21-24 of Green Forest, AR, I encourage you take the side roads and hit Rock Bottom with us and see what all the excitement is about. If nothing else, you’d see me roughing it, which I guarantee you would be a funny sight. For all the information you’d ever need on the event, go to www.rockbottomchuckwagonraces.com.
