he Camp is open at no cost to anyone eight years old and older, both male and female, and its purpose is to promote the sport of rodeo through education and recruitment of young people who may become the next generation of rodeo stars. The event will provide a fun rodeo related experience through both classroom and arena participation with instruction by professional rodeo cowboys.
According to rodeo chairman Tom Atwell, this is a unique opportunity for this area as only two such camps are being held east of the Mississippi. He adds that this selection speaks well for the quality of the Gerry Rodeo as its 71 consecutive years of professional rodeo has earned National recognition.
The curriculum includes an introduction to the rough stock events with an emphasis on fundamentals, chute procedures, livestock safety, injury prevention, and fitness and nutrition. The Camps are geared for beginning youth and for cowboys just starting out who want to learn the fundamentals from PRCA champions. There will be no live buck-outs.
The day’s activities will begin at the Gerry Fire Hall, located near the stoplight in Gerry, and will then move to the rodeo arena. A free lunch will be provided for participants. The Camp will be held regardless of the weather.
Pre-registration is required and forms are available at the PRCA website (www.prorodeo.com/PRCARodeoCamps). The registration needs to be completed by May 1, but early registration is encouraged as spaces are limited. Call (716) 9854215 if there are problems with the registration. Additional information is available by email at jjutten@prorodeo.com or by calling Julie Jutten at (719) 528-4729.
The 71st annual Gerry Rodeo is set for four performances, August 5-8, featuring approximately 135 professional cowboys and cowgirls competing for more than $45,000 in prize money. Additional information regarding the rodeo is available at the website www.gerryrodeo.org or by phone at (716) 985-4847 or 1-888-9854847.
📷 A young aspiring bronc rider learns the basics from a pro cowboy.