The 4th annual UPRA/CPRA sanctioned Dublin Rodeo is offering rodeo excitement this weekend - Friday, Aug. 16 and Saturday, Aug. 17 at the City Arena, located in City Park.
The event is no longer listed under the Diamond Cross banner but it is still the same people who have been bringing the rodeo action to town.
“This year the stock contractor has a new name but the same people,” said organizer Jeff Slaton. “Gerry Byrn and his wife Jessica have re-branded as Byrn Rodeo Productions bringing the same quality livestock and performance of a sanctioned UPRA rodeo as they have over the past four years.”
As in years past, entry is free to the Friday night slack event starting at 7:30 p.m. Saturday evening will begin with mutton bustin’ registration at 6 p.m. and the kids (8 and under) hitting the dirt at 7 p.m. Entry into the mutton bustin’ competition is $20 cash with cash prizes awarded to first and second place. This will follow with the rodeo at 7:30 p.m. The event promises plenty of spectacle with competitions such as bareback saddle bronc, bull riding, team roping and calf roping.
“Last year there were over 200 entries and they feel they are on pace to meet or beat that number,” said Slaton. “Dublin is the epicenter of rodeo with Stephenville and Tarleton down the road and a number of top level contestants in a 20 mile radius.”
Entry is $15 per person on Saturday night with kids 8 and under able to get in free.
“There will also be a ribbon calf for the 12 and under kiddos and the FFA Calf Scramble which sets the tone for not only scramble winner awards, but also year-end scholarships for college or trade school bound students,” said Slaton of the Saturday entertainment. (The rodeo has provided a number of scholarships in the past few years with two presented to Dublin FFA students this past May.)
Although the rodeo has moved from its traditional schedule of the 9-11 weekend, organizers would still like to invite first responders out to the event so they can be recognized for all they do to keep us safe. This recognition will occur during the Saturday night event.
Award winning rodeo clown Chase Nolen will also once again be in the ring to add to the entertainment.
No outside food or drink will be allowed but concessions will be sold on-site with vendors able to take credit card payments.
The event, sanctioned by United Pro Rodeo Association and Cowboys Professional Rodeo Association, is being sponsored by Triple Crown Ford/ Lincoln.
Byrn Rodeo produces six rodeos within a 60 mile radius of Dublin and takes pride in the support they with the help of their sponsors can provide to the future of our agriculture through supporting the FFA. For more information on the group or event, email byrnrodeo@gmail.com.