MESQUITE, Texas — The Mesquite Championship Rodeo helped out North Carolina flooding victims in a big way -- 42,000 pounds worth, in fact.
That's how much livestock feed the rodeo officials helped collect and ultimately deliver to farmers and ranchers who need it in Western North Carolina, which was badly devastated by flooding in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
The Mesquite rodeo officials worked with Smokey Adams of Stevens Transport to deliver the feed cross-country, and the group also got a police escort through Texas to the Louisiana state line. The Aaron Family also supported the delivery efforts.
The feed delivery was about more than just supplies, rodeo officials said.
“This effort wasn’t just about feed—it was about bringing hope,” said Caleb Thomas, Assistant Rodeo Director at Mesquite Championship Rodeo. “The rodeo family is more than what happens in the arena. It’s about character, resilience, and showing up for others when it matters most. This delivery was a symbol of that commitment—letting the farmers and ranchers in North Carolina know they’re not alone."
The Mesquite Championship Rodeo is held annually each August. The rodeo called for feed bag donations earlier in October, in the wake of Hurricane Helene's impact. For each bag of feed donated, the rodeo gave out one free ticket to next year's rodeo.
