Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey submitted the report and pictures.
The weekend weather failed to weaken the spirits of Junior High and High School youth, who gathered at the Whiteside County Fairgrounds to compete in Rodeo events, on Friday night, September 17, and Sunday, September 18, 2022. Trailers filled the grounds as families came to spend the weekend and support their athletes in a variety of competitive events. Everyone had hopes of earning an opportunity to compete in the State Finals later in the fall, and perhaps to advance to the National Finals as an event leader.
Competitors journeyed from throughout Illinois with a few others making the trip from Indiana and Missouri. All of them are members of the Illinois High School Rodeo Association (IHSRA.) They compete in 16 rodeos, hoping their performances will earn a spot in the Illinois State Finals in Sheridan, IL, on October 15 and 16. Rodeos are held throughout three State Districts on eight weekends, with two rodeos held at each venue.
Competition is available for Junior High and High School ages, with action available for youth as young as fifth grade eligible to compete. A day at the IHSRA Rodeo will offer these events: Bareback Steers, Girls Breakaway, Boys Breakaway, Breakaway Roping, Tie Down Roping, Ribbon Roping, Pole Bending, Chute Dogging, Girls Goat Tying, Boys Goat Tying, Saddle Bronc Steers, Barrel Racing, Team Roping, and Bull Riding.
Unlike many sporting activities that are seasonal, a commitment to Rodeo competition requires a complete commitment from the family: to the youth, and from the youth to the animal. The latter are partners towards a goal of success in various events. Successful athletes follow a committed daily schedule, to perfect their talent and fulfill the attention and discipline that Is required. Rodeo horses are partners with their riders.
All IHSRA members must maintain a designated grade point average in order to compete. They do so with the knowledge that college scholarships are available in many areas for the accomplished and committed student.
Youthful cowboys and cowgirls are constantly surrounded by supportive parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends with similar interests. This support group makes up the volunteers that work before, during, and after the competition, and by assembling and dismantling the facilities needed for competition. Their constant contributions to the success of this sport are a glowing example for the youth. The family involvement is an expression of commitment to assure a safe, competitive arena for Rodeo athletes.
