Youth Rodeo in Marble Falls continues to grow in numbers
MARBLE FALLS — The Youth Rodeo sponsored by the Marble Falls Rodeo Association and the Burnet County 4-H Horse Club on July 13 was a resounding success, according to organizers.
About 45 competitors ranging in age from 4 to 18 were in attendance to compete in several events, including pole bending, barrel racing and goat tying.
IN PHOTO: Skylar Brown concentrates on getting the ribbon during the goat tie competition of the Youth Rodeo sponsored by the Marble Falls Rodeo Association and the Burnet County 4-H Club on July 13. Staff photos by Jennifer Fierro
But what makes the event so special has little to do with the finishes, though the top two male and female finishers in each age group receive a buckle or a holster. This event is more about the chance to compete and developing a deeper love for the sport.
“When I drove up and noticed how many people were here, I thought it was some big ol’ play day half the rodeo was at here,” horse club president Lane Becker said. “So I was really glad with the turnout we had. That’s success. We’re moving up, we’re getting out and everybody’s knowing that we got this going on and they’re coming.”
He recalled the first year he participated, the rodeo drew about 20 athletes, all members of the 4-H Club.
The July 13 event drew athletes from Llano, Hays, Williamson and Travis counties.
“We got a big number this year,” Becker said. “If we get 10 more competitors a year here, pretty soon we’re going to be out doing the rodeo. We really want to get our name out there to everybody. And come out. It’s a lot of fun.”
Winners at the Youth Rodeo were:
• 8 & Under Girls: 1, Mekalia Terry; 2, Kylee Brown.
• 9-11 girls: 1, Angelica York; 2, McKenna Dove.
• 12-14 Girls: 1, Shelby Baker; 2, Sydney Schroeder.
• 15-18 Girls: 1, Jacey Smathers; 2, Shelby Haynes.
• 8 & Under Boys: 1, Colby Metzler; 2, Mason Scott.
• 9-11 Boys: Luke Haydon.
• 12-14 Boys: 1, Levi Boatright; 2, Tyler Horn.
• 15-18 Boys: Lane Becker.
Buckle sponsors were: Flick Chick Photography, Remax of Marble Falls, KBAY Radio, Bella Medical Spa, Price’s Custom Cabinets, Honey Dipper and H-E-B.
The halter sponsor was the Blue Bonnet Café.