John Beck from Broomfield, Colo., had a fast time in the pole bending event. There were 43 cowboys and cowgirls entered Saturday in the 13-event rodeo sponsored by the Gateway Gay Rodeo Association. The Gateway Regional Rodeo was at the Mark Harrell Horse Facilities in Caseyville and raised money for two St. Louis charities.

Members of gay royalty walk into the arena before the rodeo starts during the Grand Entry. This local rodeo - the Gateway Regional Rodeo - was put on hy the Gateway Gay Rodeo Association, which is sanctioned by the International Gay Rodeo Association. From left. DeShannon Christie, who was first runner-up for Miss IGRA 2010; Miss IGRA 2010, who said his name is Ionna Doublewide; and Gene Cheek, who was first runner-up for Mr. IGRA 2010.

Wade Earp, the great nephew of famous Westent gu unan Wyatt Earp, talks with other cowboys during the rodeo.

Julie Wah by of Fenton, Mo., walks a horse during the "riderless horse" ceremony before the start of the Gateway Gay Rodeo Association's regional rodeo. The ceremony symbolizes those who are no longer with us. and has roots from the days of the old U.S. Cavalry.