Burnet County Rodeo rides into town with high-energy thrills
DANIEL CLIFTON • PICAYUNE EDITOR
BURNET — The Burnet County Rodeo promises two exciting nights of excitement and fun but also a chance to celebrate the men and women of the armed forces and help battle breast cancer.
Gates open at 7 p.m. June 13-14 at the Burnet County Fairgrounds, 1301 Houston Clinton Drive. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for ages 6-10 and free for children 5 and younger.
“Wear your red, white and blue on Friday night,” said Cody Orman, the president of the Burnet County Fair and Rodeo Association. “Saturday night is breast cancer awareness (night), so everybody wear pink.”
The Burnet County Rodeo continues the American tradition of the sport that started on ranches across the West several generations ago. But organizers also want to show their support to those who wear the uniform for the entire country. On Friday, which is deemed Patriot Night, military members get in half-off. And a portion of the proceeds goes to local youth charities.
On Saturday, rodeo fans are asked to come dressed in pink to help raise awareness of breast cancer. The rodeo started this several years ago, and it remains a popular part of the entire event. A portion of the Saturday night proceeds goes to local cancer charities.
But remember, this is a rodeo, so fans can expect some of the best bull riding, calf roping, team roping, bareback and bronc riding, barrel racing and steer wrestling around. Orman said he expects top-quality athletes to make their way through Burnet for the event as the men and women compete for cash and rankings in both the Cowboy Professional Rodeo Association and the United Professional Rodeo Association.
And with $5,000 added money, contestants will be happy to drive to Burnet to compete.
“These cowboys, they like to make two or three rodeos a weekend,” Orman said.
Johnny Hoyle and his Cadillac Rodeo Co. are returning as the stock contractor this year. Orman explained that having a top stock contractor such as Hoyle draws even more interest from contestants because they know that if the stock is good, it creates a better atmosphere in the arena.
But just because the stock is good doesn’t mean it’s easy.
Hoyle has a reputation of hauling some of the toughest bulls and rough-stock horses around.
All that adds up to a better show for the fans.
Along with the regular events, the Burnet County Rodeo will feature Ginger Duke, a Texas trick rider. Duke took up trick riding at the age of 21 but quickly found her passion for it. Since starting, Duke has crisscrossed the country thrilling crowds. She has even performed in movies.
The Lone Star Cowgirls Mounted Drill Team also will be on hand for the rodeo.
Of course, the Burnet County Rodeo is not just for watching. The kids will have several opportunities to get in the arena and show their stuff. The event features a kids calf scramble and shoe scramble.
One of the most popular events for fans and participants alike, however, is probably the kids mutton bustin’. The youth climb on the backs of a bunch of sheep and then race around the arena. Those who hold on the longest win.
It’s definitely something to see.
“It’s really fun for the little youngsters,” Orman said.
Mutton bustin’ pre-registration is at Blair’s Western Wear, 2501 U.S. 281 in Marble Falls.
After the rodeo performances, people can enjoy live music featuring Alan Ray on June 13 and Kenny Orts on June 14.
Tickets are available at the gate or in advance at the Burnet Chamber of Commerce, The Picayune in Marble Falls and Blair’s Western Wear.
daniel@thepicayune.com