SAN ANTONIO – George Strait is known as the "King of Country," with more No. 1 hits than any other singer in history. Yet making records is not his only passion.
Strait also likes riding and roping.
So much so, in fact, that 30 years ago, he started a competition to bring some of the best team ropers to town for a little prize money challenge.
"He made his money singing, but he sure likes to rope," said Collie Webb, a close friend.
At first, he only wanted guys from around Texas to participate.
That idea lasted one year.
"After the first year, word got out and guys were trying to figure out ways to be Texas residents so they could come to this ropin'," Collie said.
Strait began the competition about the time his singing career took off and now it is grown by leaps and bounds.
"It's like the Super Bowl," said Allen Bach, who has made his 20th trip to the Rose Palace for the competition.
He is back again this year because he just likes the whole set up, and of course, Strait is in charge. He has won the event three times.
"George Straight is like Elvis to the western world but he is such a down-to-earth, personable guy. He wanted to make this the greatest event for us because he is a cowboy, " Bach said.
There are also some pretty good prizes.
The winner team can drive off in a new, custom-painted truck, pulling a new, custom-painted trailer and hauling nearly $100,000 in their pocket.
"He likes giving them an opportunity to make some good prize money," said Webb.
Bach also said this is one event every year he marks on his calendar.
"Even when you're 54, you don't want to miss it, Bach said.