ARCOLA — The eighth annual Arcola Rodeo had one of its largest crowds ever. On Aug. 22, chilly winds and on-and-off rain did not stop more than 2,000 people ready to cheer and bring Arcola alive.
Over the past several months, the rodeo committee, with the help of many volunteers, prepared for the day and were pleased with the turnout, although the weather caused a few hiccups during the day.
As cowboys and cowgirls polished their boots, the fearless riders mounted up for the eight-second thrill to hear the buzzer or record the fastest time around the barrels.
The competition began in the morning with barrel racing. Five peewees, 15 youth, and 49 open riders competed for the chance to be one of the top 10 barrel racing finalists to run for the big money in the evening.
It was not only a packed house with standing-room-only spectators, but the events also saw full cards of riders. Robert Schmidt, a professional rodeo announcer, kept the crowd engaged throughout the evening.
Events included wild pony races, where a team of three works together and one member must ride a pony for a short distance. Six teams entered, with Tylee Camerson, Bri Rowley and Kerri Walker emerging as winners.
The wild horse races are similar, but riders must saddle their horse. Six teams competed, with Jason Loken, Cody Loken and Cory Loken taking the championship.
Bareback riding featured six competitors, including Arcola’s Justin Carrier.
“The horse hit me pretty hard on the gate on the way out,” said Carrier. “It came out backwards so that threw me off. But I was able to get back in the middle of her and finish my ride.” Carrier did not win, as Ty Ferguson scored a spectacular 76.5 to take home the buckle.
Saddle bronc riding had 21 competitors, nine in the afternoon slack and 12 in the evening show. William Hale won with a score of 79, beating Reid Gustafson by one point.
Team roping brought six teams, with a header and a heeler. Kisbey’s Greg Johnston and Cody Johnston claimed first place.
Barrel racing thrilled the crowd, with 10 riders giving their all. Rana Beierbach and her horse Lainey took the big prize.
The sheep scramble delighted children, as kids chased sheep with flags attached. Emma Ryan was the lucky winner.
Steer riding featured 11 competitors. Two riders, Nixon Kappel and Blake Senft, tied for the top score of 75.
Bull riding, the highlight for many, had 12 competitors. Davis Young scored 86 points to take first place, with Brodi Beasley close behind at 83 points.
Food was available throughout the evening, and the beer garden was open. When the rodeo ended, the cabaret began with Brandon and Company on stage. More than 1,000 people stayed to enjoy the music and social atmosphere.
