California Rodeo Salinas enforcing new clear bag policy

The California Rodeo Salinas officially kicked off on Thursday. It is one of the biggest events the city sees every year.

Organizers expect over 50,000 people to get on down to the rodeo over the next four days. There are about 1,400 volunteers who help run the show.

“It’s pretty impressive to think of 1,400 volunteers and over 70 committees coming together to put on a show that’s so good and offers the opportunity for nonprofits to earn money,” said Mandy Linquist, a spokesperson for the California Rodeo.

The rodeo in Salinas is one of the top 15 professional rodeos in the country out of 600. It also gives over $400,000 back to nonprofits every year.

Thursday morning, horse races ran their loops in the three barrel competition. One competitor explains why she loves the rodeo so much.

“There is so much history. It really is such a family-oriented sport. They really include all aspects and there’s just so much history,” said Katelyn Wall.

One thing that is not so historic at the rodeo is the new mandatory clear bag policy.

Backpacks, camera bags and oversized totes are among the items prohibited at the rodeo. Diaper and medical bags are the exceptions.

The policy helps security check for any weapons or food that are not allowed in.

For the complete list of permissible and prohibited bags, click here.