Rodeo Parade kicks off a weekend of PRCA excitement
information released
Rodeo fans, the wait is nearly over! Chelan Rustlers Saddle Club and Aces Wild Pro Rodeo partner once again to bring another year of rodeo excitement to the Chelan Valley on July 15 & 16.
This year’s event will feature the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) card holders, an elite group of competitors who’ve earned enough winnings to become a bona fide member of the PRCA.
So what can rodeo fans expect? A bigger and better rodeo with more than 100 contestants competing in nine different events for thousands of dollars in prize money. It also means rodeo fans will see the most exciting, foot stomping, heart-pounding, rock-n-rollin’ rodeo to hit the Chelan valley in several years.
“We decided to create an all-around rodeo experience for our community and visitors by bringing the PRCA Rodeo to Chelan then follow it up with an all time family favorite, the Chelan Jr. Rodeo on July 30 and 31.” said Cheyenne Stocker, Chelan Rustlers Rodeo chairwoman. “Last year was the first time in more than 10- years that we’ve hosted a pro rodeo here in Chelan and it was a real crowd pleaser. This year we’re expecting an even bigger turnout and a lot more rodeo excitement.”
These professional rodeo competitors come in from around the US and Canada to showcase their gutsy style of bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, bull and saddle-bronc riding plus much more. Some of the champions competing in this year’s rodeo may qualify for the December 2022 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, the world’s premier rodeo held by the PRCA where top rodeo contestants in each category compete for the world title and their share of a multi-million dollar purse.
“Competing at this level doesn’t come easy.” said Lynette McMillan, co-owner of Aces Wild Pro Rodeo. “It takes guts, dedication and a passion for this time honored tradition to make it this far. Its hard work, but they don’t mind because they’re doing what they do best – Rodeo. And the fans love it.”
Adding to this year’s entertainment will be the World Famous Chicken Chase where children from toddler age to 10-years-old compete for prizes by capturing one of several chickens running loose in the arena. There also will be a “Wine Relay” event sponsored by two local wineries where contestants navigate a relay obstacle course and compete for first, second or third place. Additionally, there will be food vendors, gift tents and a beer garden.
“We’re real excited for this year’s rodeo season.” said Stocker. “There’s a lot of fun things happening around town leading up to the pro rodeo. We’ve invited local businesses to help generate a little rodeo spirit by adding in some western style Americana décor in their store front. We’ll be awarding free rodeo tickets to the business with the best dressed window. Plus, the Lake Chelan Rodeo Parade will be riding through town on Thursday, July 14 at 7 pm.”
At the end of Friday’s performance, the PRCA will host its SLACK Barrel Racers and Ropers event where fans can watch more rodeo champions compete for buckles, titles and prize money.
“There is something for everyone this year. So bring the family. Bring the neighbors. It’s rodeoing at full-throttle. And it doesn’t get more exciting than that.”
