Capturing the Thrill: The Madison County Championship Rodeo

There's something about the dust, the crowds, and the sheer energy of a rodeo that brings a childlike giddiness to my heart, reminiscent of the first time I set foot in the American Southwest. Although I don't reside in the cowboy landscape I so dearly love, I jump at the chance to photograph cowboys and rodeos whenever the opportunity presents itself.

images by Jeffery Minnish

Sometime back, I had the exhilarating opportunity to photograph the Madison County Championship Rodeo near Asheville, NC. This experience was more than just a photo shoot; it was a journey back to the roots of one of the things that makes me feel most alive—the excitement, the culture, and the people of the rodeo world.

These images are an emotional recount of my time at the Madison County Championship Rodeo, showcasing the vibrant life and spirit of the event that continues to inspire my photography and my passion for capturing the essence of the cowboy lifestyle.