Honorary Vaquero

“If you can’t do it on horseback, it’s not worth doing.” So says
this year’s Fiesta Rodeo Honorary Vaquero, Fred Reyes — and his
life is a testament to this philosophy. A direct descendant of the
Ortega family, Reyes grew up on a ranch in the Cuyama Valley, which
is now known as Walking R Ranch. Reyes continues to operate Walking
R, where he runs a cow/calf operation. He does most of the work
himself, and, with a lifetime of experience and a degree from Cal
Poly in animal husbandry and horseshoeing under his belt, Reyes is
frequently called upon by his neighbors to assist them with their
gatherings and brandings. Reyes has judged rodeos and stock-horse
classes, and with his philosophy and his lifelong commitment to
cattle ranching in the vaquero tradition, this honor is
well-earned.