"A man's character is not defined by the words he speaks, rather it is exemplified through his actions, how he lives his life, and how he treats those around him." (srn)
This statement embodies the very essence of a very special friend and a true cowboy in every sense of the word. We would like you to please join us as we wish a very Happy Birthday to Mr. Jim Ritchea.
Mr. Jim Ritchea (photo by AV Media)
Jim has been an integral part of the Showdown Rodeo Family for many, many years. Quiet and unassuming, Jim takes great pride in ensuring our rodeo arena is properly groomed for our contestants and animal athletes. No matter what is thrown at him, Jim always ensures our arena is immaculate. Many times over the years, Jim has been seen walking the entire arena (north to south – east to west) to personally inspect every inch of the arena. You will never find him far away from his tractor (okay - tractors!) or his water truck.
His dedication to that arena was never more apparent than prior to the 2015 RAM PRCA California Circuit Finals Rodeo. As you may remember, the Antelope Valley was hit with a devastating rain storm that caused massage damage to our community and to the rodeo grounds - just one day before the start of the rodeo. Jim, along with CCF President and long time friend, Johnny Zamrzla, walked to the arena to survey the damage. Anyone else would have thought it hopeless; not Jim - he just gave a little smile and said, "Well, we better get busy". He and his crew worked tirelessly for the next 24 hours draining, tenching, digging, and working that arena. Thought by some to be impossible, Jim had that arena ready to go for Championship Rodeo!
Mr. Jim Ritchea and Mr. Johnny Zamrzla
"He's a good man's man, a cowboy to the core, lends a hand before ya ask, and is just down right a damn good guy. "A Tip of my Resistol to Jim Ritchea." - Mr. Johnny Zamrzla, President California Circuit Finals and Chairman of the Showdown Rodeo, Inc.
A Husband, Father, and Grandfather, Jim is always there for his family and his friends. He and his wife Cindy hold tight to their traditional western values and have passed those treasured values to their son Justin and daughter Becky. Together, Jim and his wife, Justin and Becky and their families, continue to instill the "Cowboy Way of Life" to his grandsons Kolby and Jace.
Grandsons helping out Grandpa in the arena
"Jim is the real deal. He truly is the cow and the boy in cowboy! He understands both worlds. Thank you Jim for all that you are and the example you have set for so many. Wishing you the best birthday ever! Sandy Travis, Showdown Rodeo Committee Member and long-time friend.
Jim and his family are very active in the community. From showing their support for "Hometown Heroes" by riding their horses in community parades or helping out a neighbor in need, Jim is always there lending a helping hand.
Hometown Heroes Parade, Antelope Acres, CA
Jim also volunteers his time to the California High School Rodeo Association - District Nine Rodeo. Many weekends, he will be the first one at the ranch ensuring the arena is ready for our up and coming young ropers and riders. You will also see him by the chutes quietly supervising, and in that "dad/grandpa" kind of way, keeping a watchful eye out for everyone's safety. He is also a teacher and a mentor - one's whose experience is respected by all - including the young riders who truly look up to him.
Helping out with D9 Rodeo - Thank you Weasel Loader Photography for this wonderful shot!
The respect he is shown by all of these young cowboys and cowgirls says it all. During CHSRA District Nine's award ceremony this past March, Mr. Ritchea was honored for all of his hard work and dedication, and was presented this beautiful photo as a token of their appreciation for all that he does.
Jim and Cindy Ritchea - Zamrzla Ranch - March 2016
Happy Birthday Mr. Ritchea!!! Thank you for all that you do and here's a toast to many, many more!!
