Kid Rock sings these lyrics and it's evident that he surely isn't talking about professional cowboys.

Not just anyone can pull on some boots, strap on some chaps and slap on a hat and call him or herself a professional cowboy or cowgirl, even if they can sit a horse pretty well or have the strength of an ox.

It takes a mite more than all of the above.

First you must pony up some cash for a permit, then go out and win a hatful of money (a predetermined amount). If you win at the right events, within the time specified (this sounds like an event itself), then you can buy a semi-pro card. Now, do this again by competing and winning even more cash, and you can buy a full-pro card. Now you are well and truly, a "professional cowboy".

For ladies barrel racing, cowgirls don't have to fill the semi-procard to buy a ladies barrel racing card.

While there are over 800 pro rodeos in North America, very few professional cowboys make a living at it. Those at the top may make $100,000 and they are very few.

The Canadian Professional Rodeo Association collects the fees and issues the permits. If you are interested in all the details, contact them at the CPRA office:

#223, 2116 - 27th Ave.
NE, Calgary, AB
T2E 7A6
Tel. (403) 250-7440
Fax (403) 250-6926

Canadian Professional Rodeo Association
American Professional Rodeo Association