Life In Flip-Flops: Paniolo and a Hawaiian Rodeo (Part 2)

Thursday, August 21, 2014

Paniolo and a Hawaiian Rodeo (Part 2)

Thanks for joining us for the second part of my interview with fellow author, Davalynn Spencer. Last week she gave us a little background on her rodeo clown/bull fighter husband. Today we'll hear more about their Paniolo experience in Hawaii!

Page One of an Article written by Davalynn
for The Western Horseman

Davalynn, tell my readers about how you came to end up in Hawaii for a rodeo.

Mike was asked to work the Waimanalo Championship Rodeo on Oahu in 1989. The rodeo committee (and the state senator) flew us to the Island, put us up at the Ilikia (Hawaii 5-0 anyone?) and gave us a car. We worked all the acts Mike had that didn’t include our dogs, chickens or guinea hens because we couldn’t take them with us. It was great fun watching the island-specific events like double-mugging – a cross between team roping and steer wrestling with hornless cattle. Takes a couple of tough paniolos to pull it off.

I also loved the fact that many of the wahini barrel racers wore leis.

What was your favorite part about competing or being in the islands?

Hawaii was one of the few – let me say “attractions” – that lived up to its hype. The moment we stepped off the plane, we knew we were in a very special place. The scent of flowers and greenery permeated the air. And the seascapes, pristine shores, and massive mountains took our breath away. No wonder it’s called “paradise.”

It's Rodeo Time in Waimanalo, Oahu, Hawaii!

Tell us more about your role during these rodeos (besides being a supportive wife and mother!)

I was the pit-stop crew for my husband. I also sang the National Anthem at nearly every rodeo, and once, after Mike was injured, I dressed up in his clown clothes and carried on with the comedy act. didn't fight bulls, though--Ain't stupid!!!