World's First Championship Jackrabbit Roping

World's First Championship Jackrabbit Roping (HM1M2E)

Location: Odessa, TX 79761 Ector County
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Country: United States of America
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N 31° 50.986', W 102° 22.465'

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Inscription
Contest began as "hare-brained" publicity stunt during 1932 annual Odessa Rodeo. Held at 3rd and Grant Street site despite objections from out-of-town do-gooders. Local sheriff opposed event but mayor and judge ruled no violation of Texas law. Cowgirl Grace Hendricks roped rabbit from horseback in five seconds flat winning over numerous male competitors. Notorious contest revived in 1977 causing coast-to-coast outcry. Midland animal lover delayed action by liberating captive jackrabbits. Event proceeded on schedule when former prisoners returned at feeding time. Seven ropers competed on foot. Jack Torian placed first with a six second scamper. In 1978 Humane Society blocked all future ropings with court order.
Details
HM NumberHM1M2E
Tags
Marker Number12
Year Placed1990
Placed ByHeritage of Odessa Foundation
Marker ConditionNo reports yet
Date Added Tuesday, July 21st, 2015 at 10:01pm PDT -07:00
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Locationbig map
UTM (WGS84 Datum)13R E 748442 N 3526788
Decimal Degrees31.84976667, -102.37441667
Degrees and Decimal MinutesN 31° 50.986', W 102° 22.465'
Degrees, Minutes and Seconds31° 50' 59.16" N, 102° 22' 27.9" W
Driving DirectionsGoogle Maps
Area Code(s)432
Which side of the road?Marker is on the right when traveling West
Closest Postal AddressAt or near 300-398 W 8th St, Odessa TX 79761, US
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