PRCA rodeo returns to Bigfork this summer

Following the success of the first Bigfork Summer Pro Rodeo last year, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association has approved the event to continue as an annual event for years to come.

Hundreds of spectators flooded the new Bigfork arena last year, overflowing the bleachers set up for watching the bronc riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing and bull riding events.

“If you’ve never experienced Bigfork over America’s birthday weekend, it’s definitely something every person should see for themselves as it’s truly something special,” said Rebekah King, executive director of the Bigfork Chamber of Commerce. “[The rodeo] just extends the Fourth of July in Bigfork.”

According to King, the association’s approval means the Bigfork rodeo will have a secured spot on each year’s professional rodeo schedule going forward.

The second annual Bigfork Summer Pro Rodeo is planned July 5-7, where the highways meet at the corner of Montana 35 and 82 in Bigfork.

A professional mobile arena will be erected on-site, and additional bleachers will be brought in this year to provide seating for all spectators who purchase tickets in advance.

“Last year I think it went just about as well as it could go,” King said. “We had a lot of comments about how fun it was from people who had never to been to a rodeo.”

The first night will benefit local veterans who get in free Friday night. Kids get in free on Sunday night and get to meet the professional cowboys and cowgirls and participate in some arena games.

More information and tickets can be found at www.bigforkrodeo.com

Reporter Mary Cloud Taylor can be reached at 758-4459 or mtaylor@dailyinterlake.com.