52nd annual Burnet County Rodeo kicks off tonight
By Savanna Gregg
The Highlander
Bull riders and barrel racers, cowboys and cowgirls, and rodeo fans of all ages will once again take the opportunity to come together for the good of their sport at the 52nd annual Burnet County Rodeo this Friday, May 11 and Saturday, May 12.
Always a family oriented weekend, the Burnet County Rodeo will feature a variety of enjoyable events, including the much loved kids' calf scramble, shoe scramble, and two heats of mutton bustin' and entertainment from the humorous, hardworking rodeo clowns.
“We want everyone to have fun,” said BCRA Vice President Brent Nichols. “They're not just coming to see a rodeo, but to see a production that we can all enjoy.”
Another favorite among rodeo fans is the Rodeo Queen contest, of which Nichols stressed the importance.
“The Rodeo Queens is one of the traditional parts of the rodeo,” Nichols said. “You have to have your Rodeo Queen. It's a pageant, but it's a pageant on horseback where you prove your skills and knowledge of horses.”
The contestants will be introduced on Friday night, while the 2018 Burnet County Rodeo Queen will be crowned during the event on Saturday night.
In addition to the rodeo festivities, live music will be provided by Fast Movin' Train on Friday night and Kenny Orts & No Chance on Saturday.
Though the rodeo begins on Friday, the BCRA will host Team Roping and barrel racing events on Wednesday, May 9, and Thursday, May 10, at 7 p.m. These events are free of charge and open to the public.
Kids may still sign up for their events at Blairs Western Wear in Marble Falls, and those who are unable to sign up beforehand may do so the day of the event.
Space will be limited, but there may be a need for alternates, so those that wish to participate are encouraged to show up and sign up. Blairs Western Wear will supply the vests and helmets for the kids participating in Mutton Bustin'.
“We try to make it as safe as we can, but really fun,” Nichols said.
Admission is $10 for adults, and $5 for children ages 6-11. Children five years and under get in free. Visitors will enjoy a full concession stand including adult beverages.
Friday night is Patriot Night; military and first responders will be admitted for half-price with valid ID. Saturday night is Cancer Awareness night; a portion of the proceeds will go towards a local cancer foundation.
Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the rodeo begins at 7 p.m.
“It's a really big deal, and a big fundraiser for the BCRA,” Nichols said. “Events like these help keep the lights on at the fairgrounds, so all of the FFA groups and kids like that can keep coming out here and using the facilities.”
