Mark your calendars and save the date as Foothills Rodeo returns to Wessington Springs.
The time-honored event featuring over 300 cowboys and cowgirls from across the Midwest begins on Friday, July 5 at the MRA, NRCA, and SDRA-approved 21st Annual Wessington Springs Foothills Rodeo Grounds located at the base of the picturesque foothills in Wessington Springs.
The rodeo performances are set for Friday, July 5 and Saturday, July 6 starting at 7 p.m with slack starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday. Admission fees for this years event is $10 with kids 12 and under getting in free.
The rodeo will feature over 10 events including: Bareback, Saddle Bronc, Tie Down Roping, Over-40 Tie Down Roping, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping, Sr. Men’s Breakaway Roping, Ladies Barrel Racing, Ladies Breakaway Roping, Ladies Goat Tying, Mixed Team Roping, and Bull Riding.
New to the schedule this year, the Francis Knippling family will be having a Senior Men’s Breakaway roping in the afternoon on Saturday in memory of Francis.
Special events featured at this year’s rodeo include Kids Mutton Bustin’, Crazy Cowgirl Trick Rider and the Queen Competition. Mutton Bustin’ is kids 50 lbs and under with 12 riders per performance. Pre-enter by calling (605) 539-0014. This year’s Queen Competition is scheduled for Friday, July 5 at 1 p.m. Horsemanship will be held at the arena and speeches and interviews held at the Jerauld Co. Ag Building. Age divisions include: Princess, 8-11 years, Jr. Queen, 12-16, Sr. Queen, 17-24. Contact Abbey Van Gorp with any questions at (307) 257-4419.
Concessions will be provided by area churches and the Wessington Springs Volunteer Fire Department will be selling beverages as a fundraising effort. Rodeo attendees are asked not to bring coolers.