SAN ANTONIO – A record 2,034,497 estimated people attended the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo this year, a 17 percent increase from the previous record.
Virtually every category, from concessions to the carnival, set an all-time record.
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In all, 14 of 21 rodeo performances were sold out, and the seven other performances were near capacity at the AT&T Center.
"In all my years involved with the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, I have never seen a stretch of beautiful weather like we had this year. That was a great help," said Keith Martin, executive director and CEO. "But there is no mistaking that over 6,000 volunteers who work tirelessly, and world class cowboys and cowgirls competing for big winnings all contributed to bringing San Antonio a great event."
Rodeo officials said opening day promotions helped to double the first day attendance compared to previous years.
Over 421 participants took part in the Youth Rodeo. The three-day event awarded $70,000 in scholarships.
KSAT's David Sears talked with some of the 15 competitors in the Youth Horse Challenge. Usula Pari brought us a story on the lost art of boot shining.
The Grand Champion steer, Nugget, sold for $105,000 at auction. Its owner was Tristan Himes, 11. Aven Horn’s second-place steer, Timmy, sold for $75,000.
The economic impact from this year's stock show and rodeo has yet to be totaled. It is expected to exceed the over $250 million from 2015.