Joaquin Joseph, Jr.
Year Inducted: 2002
McCandless Ranch | O'ahu
Tongg Ranch | O'ahu
As the first-born son and namesake of a McCandless Ranch cowboy, Joaquin had ranching in his genes. “I was born a cowboy type,” he says.
Known among his peers for his roping ability, Joaquin says His favorite part about being a cowboy was riding out on the range, catching cattle and bringing them in for branding. But he also had to be a jack-of-all trades in his job. Back then, a cowboy had to do just about everything – fix fences, shoe horses, and work with cattle. But Joaquin is proudest of his skills as a horse trainer.
“I’m going to be 72 this month and I still train,” he says. “When I ride, I like to feel the animal under me.”
He probably inherited his love of horses from his father, Joaquin Joseph, Sr. He remembers that when his father was dying and had come home to spend his final days, he looked out at the arena and asked to be put on a horse. He wouldn’t rest until he was sitting in the saddle.
“That’s going to be my last wish too,” Joaquin says.