Rodeo Oahu

For many rodeo riders, life outside the arena requires as much grit and determination as the eight-second rides they’re known for. While the rodeo circuit offers excitement, camaraderie, and the thrill of competition, it doesn’t always provide year-round income. When the off-season arrives, most riders turn to side work—drawing on their versatility, work ethic, and hands-on skills to make ends meet. From ranch labor and construction to more specialized trades like woodworking and window restoration, these jobs not only provide financial stability but also allow cowboys and cowgirls to stay connected to craftsmanship and tradition.

Blue-Collar Backgrounds

Many rodeo professionals come from agricultural or blue-collar backgrounds, so physical, outdoor work comes naturally. During downtime, they often pick up seasonal ranch jobs, such as cattle feeding, fence repair, or horse training. Others work in the oil fields, drive trucks, or take on welding and carpentry projects. These trades align well with a rodeo rider’s rugged lifestyle—demanding, independent, and rewarding for those who take pride in tangible results. However, a growing number of riders have discovered niche side work that connects them with history and preservation, including skilled restoration work on historic buildings.

Restoration Services

One unique and rewarding field that some rodeo riders have ventured into is historic window restoration. This trade requires patience, precision, and respect for craftsmanship—all traits that rodeo athletes naturally possess. Window restoration projects often involve repairing or rebuilding original wood sashes, reglazing antique glass, and refinishing frames to match a structure’s historic character. The work can be meticulous, but for those accustomed to long hours in the saddle, the satisfaction of restoring a piece of history is worth the effort. A notable example of such craftsmanship can be seen in projects like the Wanton Lyman Hazard Hous in Newport, Rhode Island—one of the oldest surviving homes in the area. Restoration efforts on historic properties like this highlight the importance of preserving original architectural details, including period-accurate windows that help maintain both aesthetic authenticity and energy efficiency. For a rodeo rider-turned-craftsman, being part of such work can be both financially beneficial and deeply fulfilling.

Custom Trades

Aside from restoration, many riders explore creative trades that allow flexibility around their competition schedules. Custom leatherwork, for example, is a natural fit—many riders are already familiar with the materials and techniques used to maintain their gear. Some design and sell hand-tooled belts, saddles, or rodeo accessories during the off-season. Others start small businesses in welding, metal fabrication, or woodworking, taking pride in the same craftsmanship that defines their time in the arena.

What makes these side jobs so appealing is that they mirror the independent spirit of the rodeo world. Whether restoring antique windows on a historic site like the Wanton Lyman Hazard House or handcrafting leather goods in a workshop, rodeo riders bring their trademark resilience and dedication to every project. These off-season endeavors aren’t just about making ends meet—they’re about continuing a tradition of hard work, creativity, and craftsmanship that keeps the rodeo spirit alive long after the dust settles in the arena.

Oahu, the vibrant heart of Hawaii, is known for its rich blend of cultural influences, which is especially reflected in the island’s food scene. When it comes to local eats during events like the Oahu Rodeo, the cuisine takes on a distinctly Hawaiian flair, with a focus on fresh ingredients, hearty flavors, and traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations. A visit to the Oahu Rodeo isn’t just about watching the action; it’s also an opportunity to savor some of the most beloved foods that are staples of island life.

Local Favorite Reigns Supreme

Pork is undoubtedly one of the most important and cherished components of Hawaiian cuisine. For centuries, it has been a staple of local diets and plays a central role in both everyday meals and special occasions. One of the most iconic ways pork is prepared in Hawaii is through a cooking method known as “kalua,” which involves slow-cooking a whole pig in an underground oven called an imu. This method infuses the pork with a rich smoky flavor, making it incredibly tender and flavorful. At the Oahu Rodeo, kalua pork is a common dish served, often shredded and paired with rice and a side of poke, a traditional raw fish salad, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. This method of cooking pork reflects both the historical roots of Hawaiian culture and the influence of Polynesian culinary traditions.

Other Popular Foods at the Rodeo

While kalua pork is a standout, Oahu’s rodeo eats include a variety of dishes that represent both traditional Hawaiian flavors and contemporary twists. Hawaiian-style BBQ is always a crowd-pleaser, with meats like beef, chicken, and pork being grilled over an open flame and glazed with savory-sweet sauces. The BBQ plates are often served with classic sides such as macaroni salad, rice, and grilled vegetables. Another must-try dish is loco moco, which features a scoop of rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and smothered in brown gravy—a deliciously comforting plate that is popular across the islands.

Another beloved food is spam musubi, a unique take on sushi where a slice of grilled Spam is placed on top of a block of rice and wrapped in seaweed. This snack is widely enjoyed in Hawaii and is a common sight at rodeos and other outdoor events, offering a quick and tasty bite between the action. Shave ice is also a popular treat to enjoy in the heat, with colorful syrup drizzled over finely shaved ice, offering a refreshing and sweet way to cool down.

Don’t Forget The Pork!

In Hawaiian cuisine, pork temp meat refers to a specific type of marinated and sometimes dried pork that is commonly prepared for use in various dishes. The pork is typically seasoned with salt, sugar, soy sauce, and other ingredients, and it’s often cooked until tender or dried to a jerky-like consistency. It is used in dishes like saimin (a type of noodle soup), chop suey, or served as a snack or side dish. The pork temp meat offers a unique, slightly sweet and savory flavor that adds depth to any meal, making it a favorite in many local recipes.

The Importance of Pork in Hawaii: The love for pork in Hawaii stems from a long history of the animal being an integral part of island life. Polynesian settlers first brought pigs to Hawaii, and they became an important part of the culture and cuisine. Pork has been used in traditional feasts and gatherings, especially in events like the luau and rodeos, where the slow-roasted pig is often the centerpiece. Over time, pork has evolved in its preparation, but its significance remains deeply rooted in the culture of Hawaii. Whether served as kalua pork, temp meat, or in other dishes, pork continues to play a central role in the meals that unite the people of Oahu and the rest of the Hawaiian Islands.

Oahu’s rodeo eats reflect the rich cultural history of the island, with pork taking center stage as a staple ingredient. Dishes like kalua pork, spam musubi, and loco moco showcase the diversity of flavors that define Hawaiian cuisine, while pork temp meat adds a unique element to local dishes. At the rodeo, these foods provide more than just fuel for the body—they offer a taste of the island’s traditions, hospitality, and the spirit of celebration that defines events like the Oahu Rodeo.