HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Parker Ranch on Hawaii Island hosted its 60th annual July 4 Rodeo and Horse Races on Thursday.

Gates opened at the Park Ranch Rodeo Arena at 7 a.m., inviting community members to explore a variety of local food and crafts vendors. Petting zoos and pony rides were among some of the fun keiki activities offered.

Rodeo action kicked off just after 9 a.m. and continued into the early afternoon.

Each year, the event recognizes an individual or group who has contributed their efforts to the community.

State Sen. Lorraine Inouye was selected to be honored at this year’s rodeo.

Inouye has dedicated her efforts toward helping Parker Ranch allocate funding and land.

Parker Ranch was first founded in 1847 and encompasses over 130,000 acres of land on Hawaii Island.

The Parker Ranch Foundation Trust is the cattle ranch’s nonprofit that supports four beneficiaries: Hawaii Preparatory Academy, North Hawaii Community Hospital, Hawaii Community Foundation and Parker School.