Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza thrills students

Jerry Diaz, founder of the Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza, a cultural pageant and staple of Denver’s National Western Stock Show, performed for student and teachers at St. Catherine of Siena School in Denver Dec. 18. The event was a special advance performance leading up to the 20th anniversary of the extravaganza at the stock show Jan. 12, featuring its traditional lineup of bull and bareback riders, trick roping, mariachi, and Diaz’s rope artistry and horsemanship skills. Diaz, a fourth-generation champion charro, thrilled the school community at St. Catherine’s with fabulous rope tricks, according to Principal Suzanne Scheck, and shared video presentations about the extravaganza. He was joined by two Folkolrico Dancers who entertained the students with colorful choreography. The National Western Stock Show, which started Jan. 11, runs through Jan. 26. For more information, visit www.nationalwestern.com.