Special to The Leader

That’s right! Whiplash is truly a fan favorite. He is the world’s smallest cowboy at 2 foot, 6 inch tall, 3-time Pro Rodeo Entertainer of the Year, and an international star who has been putting smiles on faces for years. Whiplash is a Capuchin Monkey who has been riding since he was two years old. He travels the country herding wild Barbados sheep at rodeos and other events. His riding ability is unmatched and his herding skills unchallenged. When dressed in his cowboy hat, silk scarf, chaps, and Justin boots, he never misses an opportunity to show his skills and cowboy spirit as he rides his trusty Border Collie mount, Boogie.

Whiplash has entertained crowds at rodeos, ball games, and events all across North America and Europe. He has starred in a series of television advertisements for the fast food chain Taco Johns. He has also appeared on numerous commercials, ESPN, Good Morning America, and the Today Show. The St. Paul Winter Carnival royalty has knighted Whiplash in St. Paul, MN.

Whiplash’s trainer, Tommy Lucia, purchased him as a baby from the widow of an animal enthusiast in Miami, Florida. As a young monkey, he was introduced to balancing on a saddle, then to the family’s dogs. PRCA member, Kenny Petet of Stephenville, TX, continues the legacy as the new owner of Whiplash the Cowboy Monkey. “He has really become like part of the family, with his big personality and diva-like charm”, said Petet. The rodeo star is not without his own preferences. He loves John Wayne westerns, grapes, OREO’s, and his bed-time peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

This year’s Rodeo Directors from the Orange County Sheriff’s Posse are looking forward to an all-out blowout for 2016. There’s always something for all ages at a good rodeo, but this year promises to be the biggest and best ever.

“It’s truly an honor to have been asked for participation again this year” Krissy Reese, 2015-2016 Director, said. “To take something as old and traditional as rodeo is, and then throw in some flavor that’ll stay in your memory for years to come is exciting.”

“A lot of our sponsors have been with the OCSP since before I can remember. Putting on an epic show like this puts their names out there to many people that love our community and shop locally. It should truly be a year-to-remember,” Reese said. “Whether you love the sport of rodeo or just want to laugh until your sides split, we should be able to make you happy.”

The 2016 Orange County Sherriff’s Posse Rodeo is scheduled for 8 p.m. Friday, April 15 and 8 p.m. Saturday, April 16 at OCSP Arena, 6530 Hwy 105 in Orange. Tickets can be purchased at the gate.