Distinctly Montana Magazine

w w w . d i s t i n c t l y m o n t a n a . c o m 77 RODEO KARMA If there is one place where Old West meets New it's at the rodeo, where broncin' buckaroos, flashy cowgirls and murderous bulls enjoy a few hours, all together in a large, penned arena. With so much ruckus it definitely (still) pays to have a bit of luck on your side so never, absolutely never, wear a yellow shirt while competing. But please do wear a different colored sock on each foot, and make sure your darn hat is not on your bed. Steer wrestler Hunter Cure's mother-in-law put his signature hat on his hotel bed, and his fortunes declined for two years. Finally, to be rid of the curse, he poured gasoline on his $500 headcover and burned it to ashes. While Wild Bill's poker hand draw was an unlucky coinci- dence, the "luck of the draw" is not limited to games of chance. It is also an expression used in the rodeo circuit where compet- itors are matched with the bulls, broncos, and other livestock in riding and roping events through a draw system. In most cases the cowboy contestant and critter's names are matched through a computer program, though sometimes there is still an old-fash- ioned draw with the animal's number on a poker chip, drawn from a Stetson or plain old box. Before competing be sure you shave for Lady Luck, and take all the change from your pocket, or that foretells all you might win. Do not read your horoscope on competition day. Avoid chicken before competing (you are what you eat). On the other hand, Loyd Ketchum, one of Montana's famous bull riders, would chow-down on steak and potatoes before competing, and enjoy apple pie and ice cream afterwards if no one was hurt. If a big meal before eight seconds on a big bull is not your thing, have a hot dog on the way to the ring for good luck, but avoid peanuts and popcorn; and do not kick that paper cup in the dirt if you know what's good for you. Ready to ride? Remember… right foot in the stirrup first. WHY WE LOVE HORSESHOES We saved the best for last, to leave you with a bit of good luck, even if you are not a cowboy or cowgirl. Horseshoe luck originated in the tenth century in a fable about the devil and Saint Dun- stan. Today a horseshoe, up or down, is generally considered a harbinger of luck, though some believe that the open ends facing down portend bad luck. Finding, rather than buying a horseshoe makes for even greater luck. To make sure that all the luck is good, some choose to hang the shoes in both directions. In the Old West, the shoe prevented witches and evil spirits from entering your home. Of course. Why not? Blacksmithing was considered a lucky trade, and iron withstands fire. Luckily, horseshoes often have seven holes for nailing to the horse's foot. So whether over your doorway, in your barn, on your shirt, around your wrist or hanging from your ears, horseshoes are universally considered to be far more advantageous than the "luck of the draw." Know any good blacksmiths? 220 Kendall Court • Belgrade, MT (406) 388-2559 www.wagnernursery.net W e are a family-owned nursery and landscaping business in Montana with more than 30 years of landscape experience and roots that go three generations deep. If you are looking for the best in landscaping de- sign and installation, then look no further. Our dedication to customer service speaks for itself. Reviews "What fun, interesting and inspiring ideas for bringing luck into your life!" "Written with enthusiasm and knowledge on how you can use luck to create success in your life." "Well-written and researched…" READY TO MAKE YOUR OWN Luck? A 90-Minute Read Available in print, digital or audio/ at Amazon.com BY W.H. Muhlenfeld LUCK IN YOUR LIFE THE RECIPE FOR A Recipes for Life Handbook Proven Get Your Copy Today at Amazon.com! 4 1/2 Star Reviews on Amazon

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