Annual Rotary Classic Rodeo kicks off tonight

February 10, 2011

For the Daily News

Saddle up for this year’s annual Rotary Classic Rodeo, held at the Mississippi Horse Park Feb. 11 and 12.
Scheduled to participate are 330 contestants ,“which is the most we’ve ever had,” states Dana Traywick, coordinator for the MSU Agri Center.
“The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association is a premier sanctioning body of rodeo that provides superior rodeo events that qualify competitors to compete in Las Vegas. Rodeo action will include bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, team roping and girl’s barrel racing. Come out for the wildest show on dirt as they risk it all and fear nothing on National Rodeo Finals (NFR) bulls like Secret Agent,” states facility manager Bricklee Miller.
“With the Dixie Nationals at the same time, the Rotary Classic Rodeo draws some of the best cowboys around to compete each night,” she added.
Not only is the rodeo entertaining, it is also the Starkville Rotary Club’s largest fundraiser this year.
“All of the proceeds are donated to a locate charity and this year will benefit the Tuition Guarantee Program overseen by SOAR. Associated with East Mississippi Community College, this program provides opportunities for students in Lowndes, Oktibbeha and Clay Counties to attend college tuition free.”
Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Friday with the rodeo beginning at 7:30 p.m. both nights. Advanced adult tickets are $12 or you can buy them at the door for $15.
Kid tickets are just $5 Saturday night. Additionally, Friday night is kids’ night, with free admission to kids 12 and under.
“Come to the arena early Saturday from 5-7 p.m. for the free petting zoos and pony rides with admission to rodeo.
Tickets went sale Monday, Feb. 1 at the following title sponsors: the Greater Starkville Development Partnership, Starkville Daily News, Oktibbeha County Co-op and Mitchell Dodge.
For more information regarding this year’s rodeo, contact Dana Traywick at 325-9350.