Snapping Shots
By: Ruth Nicolaus
PRCA photographer has taken pictures at every Hamel Rodeo since its inception
Hamel, Minn. – Long-time PRCA rodeo photographer Dick Squire was honored during the July 10 performance of the Hamel (Minn.) Rodeo for having photographed the Hamel Rodeo for every year of its 40-year existence.
The Mendota Heights, Minn. man had never been to a rodeo till he and his family were visiting friends in Red Lodge, Mont. in 1980. Squire was photographing his friends’ sons, who were skiers. A rodeo was taking place, so they decided to attend. In the parking lot, a cowboy was warming up his horse, when he invited Squire’s three-year-old son for a ride. When the boy got a ride, that was it for Squire; he was hooked.
He began photographing rodeos, getting advice and help from others, and learning how to take action shots.
Squire became a PRCA member in 1988, working up to 35 rodeos a year, in addition to owning an office furniture and commercial carpeting business. He has since retired from the business but continues to photograph select rodeos each year.
Squire was presented with a Montana Silversmith buckle at the rodeo during the Saturday night performance, which was sold out. The buckle was inscribed with the words: “40 Years of Flashing People in Hamel.”