A day of roping and giving back at Clovis Rodeo Grounds organized by Grey's Anatomy star

CLOVIS, Calif. (KFSN) -- The 102nd annual Clovis Rodeo starts on Thursday but Tuesday, people headed to the rodeo grounds for a day of roping and giving back.

The cattle filed in one-by-one to the Clovis Rodeo Grounds, bracing themselves for a day of roping for a good cause.

"You need a good horse, and you need to have somebody literally show you the ropes when it comes to team roping," said Mark Thompson, Clovis Rodeo.

For the second year in a row the charity event is being held at the Clovis Rodeo Grounds. Organizer and Grey's Anatomy star James Pickens Junior came to rodeo officials last year, seeing Clovis as the perfect hosting place.

"The folks up here at the Clovis Rodeo have just been amazing. They're so gracious and accommodating, and you couldn't ask for better hosts. And it's a great way to kick off the Clovis Rodeo week which officially gets underway tomorrow," said Pickens Jr's.

Last year, this event raised $20,000 for two different charities that are dear to Pickens Jr's heart.

Professionals, and then amateurs with a riding partner, can saddle up and try a turn at roping. The competition is based on speed. Pickens Jr. told Action News he wanted to have a fun community event to raise money, instead of just writing a check to the organizations, he said, do so much for kids.

"A camp for kids, it's actually a cowboy camp. They get away for a weekend for free. A dear friend of mine started with his wife about 20 years ago called Camp Giddy Up, and then we have a wonderful after school program that we support called Hands for Hope," said Pickens Jr.

Locals love the fact that the man many know as Dr. Richard Webber, would take time from Hollywood to visit the Central Valley and make a difference.

"I think that's awesome. This event goes to charity and that's really amazing of Mr. Pickens to do this, and I'm glad we get to host it here at Clovis because that's a big thing for us to get the town's name out there," said Emilie Gambril, Clovis.

"Everybody can participate, and everybody's gonna have a great time," said Thompson.

A great time while also giving back. A main focus of the Clovis Rodeo every year.