Saddle up for weekend rodeo

Collegiate rodeo teams from five states will be on campus this weekend, competing in the 54th annual Cyclone Stampede Rodeo. Hosted by the ISU Rodeo Club, the event features three showtimes at the Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center and a lineup of traditional rodeo competitions.

"This is the last fully student-run rodeo in the nation," said Steve Roose, a junior majoring in agricultural studies and vice president for this year's event.

ISU will field a team of 15 competitors among the Great Plains Regional teams participating in this National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) qualifying event. Individuals compete for prize money, championship belt buckles and national qualifying points. Teams also earn national qualifying points.

Rodeo show times are 1 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, and a 1 p.m. championship round of top finishers on Sunday. Each show lasts an estimated three hours, with nine events on each schedule:

  • Bareback riding
  • Tie-down roping
  • Breakaway roping
  • Saddle bronc riding
  • Goat tying
  • Team roping
  • Steer wrestling
  • Barrel racing
  • Bull riding

Other entertainment will include the Whistle Nut and Ole rodeo clown act, and vendors will offer refreshments and merchandise. Ticket prices are $15 ($10 for ISU students and free for children 6 and younger), available at the door. The public is welcome to observe rodeo activities between Saturday's shows, which includes timed events only, with no "rough stock," such as bulls and broncs.