Clarkson Rodeo gallops into town for third year

In its third year, Clarkson Rodeo Days brings a full show of equestrian events and will likely draw close to 8,000 spectators and participants. In its first year it was voted the "Best New Rodeo" by the National Rodeo Association. "This rodeo is the 'real deal,' " Pat Tooley, president of Rodeo Days said. "We draw about 300 cowboys and the weekend offers a truly family atmosphere."

The event is sponsored by the Clarkson Rodeo Days, Inc. and the Town of Clarkson and offers pointed and awarded competitions. Winners of various events receive a Montana Silversmith belt buckle.

Rodeo events include: Brahma bull riding, bareback bronco riding, steer wrestling, team steer roping, saddle bronco riding, calf roping, calf scramble and specialty acts. The three-day event also features merchandise, food and drink vendors as well as entertainment Friday night and live music on Saturday. A cowboy church service is scheduled on the rodeo grounds on Sunday at 10 a.m. "Ours is the only church service where you get coffee and donuts," Pat Tooley, president of the organization said.

The Clarkson Horsemen Association sponsors three shows annually, including one in coordination with Clarkson Good Neighbor Days. The association has grown from 30 members five years ago to almost 100.

Tooley said there truly is something for everyone at the three day rodeo. "It's going to be a fast-paced event from the bull and bronco riding to the steer wrestling and barrel racing," he said. "We are also offering an invitation only event for individuals from the nursing homes and from Lifetime Assistance and other groups. We're calling it our Special Friends Rodeo and we have visitors coming from Medina to Walworth."

The event, being held at the Clarkson Horseman Arena at the corner of Route 19 and 104, kicks off Friday, June 15 at 8 p.m. and ends with a live performance at 10:30 p.m. by Black Jack. They will perform again Saturday at 10:30 p.m. Hours on Saturday are 8 p.m. for the rodeo events. On Sunday, the day starts off with the cowboy church service at 10 a.m. followed by rodeo events at 1 p.m.

Tickets are at Ryan's Big M, Wegmans, Tractor Supply Company, Clarkson Town Hall and Brockport Federal Credit Union and are available at the gate: $15 adults, $5 children, six to 12 years old; children under five are free. Write to: Clarkson Horsemen Association, P.O. Box 764, Clarkson, NY 14430 for tickets. Check out the website at www.clarksonrodeo.com for information.

June 10, 2007