Published: July 21, 2008 05:25 pm            

Rodeo rides off into success

By Tommy Mann Jr.

The Orange Leader



Judging from the big crowds, the loud applause and the exciting rodeo action this past weekend, the 2008 Orange County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo was a huge success.

Cowboys and cowgirls from across the region converged on the Orange County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo Arena on Friday and Saturday, delivering quality entertainment from bull riding to calf roping to barrel racing.

Children even got involved in the family oriented event with Mutton Bustin,’ which is for ages 5 and younger, the lamb scramble for ages 6 and younger, and the calf scramble for ages 12 and younger.

“We had good weather all weekend and good crowds, and we couldn’t ask for much more,” said Becky Rhoden of the Orange County Sheriff’s Posse. “We had a lot of good events and the fans seemed to enjoy it. We couldn’t do this without the public’s support. And we just want everyone to know that and to thank them for making our rodeo such a success.”

Although an exact dollar figure raised from the weekend event was not immediately available, Rhoden said the rodeo is the main source of funds for scholarships for area youth.

“The public really helps us out by attending the rodeo each year,” she said. “The rodeo allowed us to provide eight scholarships this past school year, which was up from five. Besides scholarships, it helps us cover our operating costs and that’s about it.”

Each night’s opening ceremony included a tribute to Warren “Dub” Stine, a longtime member who died unexpectedly in March. Stine’s daughter, Liz Gillen, circled the arena each night on her horse with her father’s horse trailing alongside her in a “riderless saddle” tribute.



Reach this reporter at 409-883-3571, Ext. 2619 or tmann@orangeleader.com

        

• Click to discuss this story with other readers on our forums.