When folks picture the women of Hawaii, they likely imagine a graceful hula dancer or a wave rider surfer girl. We’d now like to introduce you all to another group of remarkable island women, the local cowgirls of the Kauai All-Girls Rodeo.

The Association was founded in 1999 by eleven riders who had a vision of providing an opportunity for women to compete in the All-American sport of rodeo. There are currently over forty members, ranging in age from grade schoolers to grandmothers. Many of the cowgirls are descendents of Kauai’s first "paniolos" (Hawaiian for cowboy) and are proud to carry on their family’s ranching traditions.

Here is a quote from Hawaii’s Senator Daniel Akaka describing the important role of the Hawaiian cowboy:

“The Hawaiian cowboy played an important role in the economic and cultural development of Hawaii and helped to establish the islands as a major cattle exporter to California, the Americas, and the Pacific Rim for over a century. Paniolo history is frequently overlooked in Hawaii and is largely unknown beyond our shores. Yet, this is an important part of Hawaii's history and of American history. Indeed, Hawaii's working cowboys preceded the emergence of their compatriots in the American West. Paniolo came from Spain, Portugal, Mexico, California, and throughout South America to work Hawaii's ranches. As they shared their culture, married and raised families, they embraced the Native Hawaiian culture and customs.”

The Kauai All-Girls Rodeo Association operates under the non-profit status of the YMCA of Kauai and is supported by the Hawaii Tourism Authority and the County of Kauai Cultural Enrichment Program. We put on competitive rodeos throughout the year and welcome both visitors and locals to enjoy the arena action at no admission charge.

In addition to rodeo speed riding and roping, the cowgirls donate time and energy to community service projects and proudly march equestrian units in traditional island parades. There’s also fun social side to the Association when members get together to practice their rodeo skills and trail ride on the beautiful Kauai countryside.

PS: Many of the cowgirls also go surfing and/or dance hula!