Meet the Grand Marshal of Our Fourth of July Parade: A Passionate Cowboy Embracing the Ranching Lifestyle

Maui resident Kathleen Souza, a dedicated horse trainer, has been named the grand marshal of the Fourth of July parade in Makawao. She was surprised but deeply honored by the recognition. “I was kind of in shock,” she shared.

The parade, held along Makawao Avenue, showcases Souza riding her palomino horse, Yellow. This event celebrates her significant contributions to the ranching community, especially leading up to the Makawao Stampede rodeo that follows. Rodeo events are set for July 4th to 6th, including bull riding and barrel racing.

At 66, Souza may be the youngest woman to hold the title of grand marshal. Her story ties back to a rich history of Hawaiian cowboys, dating back to 1793 when King Kamehameha I received cattle from British Captain George Vancouver. Over the years, native Hawaiians learned ranching from Californian vaqueros, creating a unique blend of cultures.

Souza’s deep love for horses began when she received her first pony, “Kimo,” at age 8. She has since spent over 30 years managing Wai Ulu Stables in Makawao, training countless horses and sharing her passion for ranching. “I’ve been in rodeos all my life,” she noted, highlighting activities like roping and barrel racing.

Her late husband, Jimmy Souza, was a respected horse trainer in Hawaii. Kathleen learned a lot from him and values the lessons he shared. Family also plays a vital role in her love for ranching. Her son, Rory, and daughter, Misty, have participated in rodeos, and Rory will bring bulls for the competition this year.

Interestingly, surveys show that interest in rodeos is on the rise in the U.S. For instance, a recent poll indicated that 53% of Americans found rodeos culturally important and enjoyed attending events like these.

Souza’s enthusiasm for the ranching lifestyle reflects a larger trend among younger generations, who are reconnecting with agricultural traditions. Events like the July 4th parade not only celebrate individual achievements but also foster a broader appreciation for Hawaiian culture and history.

If you’re curious about the parade and rodeo events, they will feature community groups, classic cars, and traditional rodeo attire. Expect a mix of excitement and cultural pride as families and friends gather to celebrate. For details on ticketing, visit the Oskie Rice Event Center.

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