San Angelo rodeo crowned its first champion Friday with an Oklahoman winning the steer roping title. Chet Herren of Pawhuska roped three steers in 37.9 seconds to win the roping and deposit almost $4,000 in his bank account. Wharton cowboy Tony Reina wrapped up second place by tying his steers in 38.2. He also took home almost $4,000 for his efforts. 85 ropers were vying for $39,500 in prize money over three rounds. 7.5-seconds separated first place from eighth. Due to arena requirements, the entire steer roping is conducted over three rounds in one day. The coliseum is too narrow for steer roping.
The roping slack continues today and Sunday as 199 calf ropers are slated to compete in two rounds. The top 96 will advance in the calf roping portion during the performances. It’s a regular who’s-who of calf roping this weekend with numerous past and present world champions competing.
Over 1,100 contestants signed up for the 76th annual San Angelo rodeo, Feb. 21st-Mar. 1st. The number is a record for entries. Tickets are selling at a steady pace with Saturday’s final performance almost sold out. However, there are still tickets left for the other eight performances. If history is an indicator, the demand on the Friday shows will start to sell out followed by others. So hurry!
As for rodeo preparations, we’re running ahead of schedule. We’ve never had that luxury in the past. We purchased new bucking chutes this year and it’s already set in the coliseum. It’s a credit to our staff and volunteers. I just finished a conversation with one of our contractors now working a major rodeo elsewhere. She indicated they’re ready to leave and get to San Angelo. The welcome mat is always out for our competitors, contractors and fans. San Angelo is a rodeo town! Hotel rooms appear to be at a premium if one can be found.
Another accomplishment is the fairgrounds are now a wireless mecca for the internet. Zipnet.us completed the job just in time for the stock show and rodeo. It’s a service our visitors have requested for some time. For professional rodeo competitors, it gives them a chance to check on schedules
and travel arrangements. Livestock exhibitors and vendors should find the tool useful as well. Now I just need a laptop so I’m not tied to a desk.
Rodeo chairman Mark Duncan says if the slack performances are any indication, local rodeo fans will enjoy the 2008 show. The slack was very competitive. He adds it’s going to be a show that we can all be proud. Rodeo tickets are available at the coliseum box office, Blair’s western wear and Elite Physique. Rodeo fans can telephone 325-655-4658 for tickets. I hope to give an insiders view of the stock show and rodeo in two weeks. Until then, we’ll see you on the fairgrounds!
-Perry Curnutt, San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo Marketing Director