Anyone Can Participate – But Everyone Needs to Pre-Register by July 18th
by Loni Rahm
For over 20 years, the Lake Chelan Rodeo Grounds has been the stage for budding cowboys and cowgirls during the Lake Chelan Junior Rodeo. This annual event, held this year on July 28 and 29, is sanctioned by the Caribou Trail Junior Rodeo Administration.
“It’s a great priviledge to be part of the CTJRA,” said D’Arcy Burke, who is a member of the Chelan Rustler’s Club – the organization that hosts and promotes the annual event. Burke indicated there are strict criteria necessary to earn and to maintain the honor of being a sanctioned event.
One criteria is attracting a minimum number of participants, and Burke would like to get the word out to anyone ages 2-18 who has an interest in rodeo to become a wrangler, a rider, or a roper even if it’s just for a couple of days.
“Absolutely no experience is necessary,” said Burke. But pre-registration is mandatory and the deadline of July 18 is rapidly approaching.
Some Junior Rodeo participants are earning points on a multi-event circuit, and while there are cash prizes and flashy belt buckles, Burke emphasizes that most kids are just competing for fun and to achieve their personal best.
A partial list of the Junior Rodeo competitive line-up reveals some familiar as well as unconventional events, including:
- Mutton Bustin
- Goat Tail Untying
- Chute Dogging
- Calf Roping
- Steer Wrestling
- Pole Bending
- Saddle Bronc Riding
The competitive events are assigned according to different interest and age classifications. The “Little People” category includes both boys and girls ages 5 and under.
The rest of the classifications have separate categories for boys and girls:
- “Pee-Wee” – boys/girls ages 8 and under
- “Junior” – boys/girls ages 9-11
- “Intermediate” – boys/girls ages 12-14
- “Senior” – boys/girls ages 15-18
Burke was enthusiastic about the learning experience for rodeo novices and those with more experience. “The kids all have so much fun together,” she said. “It’s a very family friendly environment. Strangers become friends and friends become teammates.”
All equipment and livestock is provided so once they are preregistered, families can just show up and compete. The only exception – you must bring your own horse for equine events.
Even if you aren’t competing, you are invited to come cheer on the kids. Admission is free, and hamburgers, hotdogs and other concessions are available on the grounds.
Your participation as a contestant or a spectator helps ensure Lake Chelan Junior Rodeo will continue to earn CTJRA sanctions. “We need to retain this important piece of our history,” said Burke.
To register or for additional information, contact D’Arcy Burke by phone at 509-662-4253 or email Reliv@nwi.net
