Large crowds enjoy Stampede rodeo

by Easton Bowring
More than 1,500 spectators attended the three-day San Juan Stampede Pro Rodeo held at the San Juan County Fairgrounds in Monticello June 7-9.
With 322 contestants, 88 National Finals Rodeo (NFR) qualifiers and eleven world champions competed.
Spectators from around the world joined in on the fun, as horses bucked, steers were wrestled, and calves were thrown to the ground.
Local vendors lined the arena, selling everything from homemade root beer to brick oven pizza and fresh-squeezed lemonade.
Isaac Walker was one of many children in the stands on Friday night. He said, “It was awesome! The clown was funny, but the bulls were my favorite part.” 
On Saturday night, the action included local barrel racers from surrounding areas, as well as the Blue Mountain Rodeo Team. Experienced rider and event volunteer Joan Wilcox took home the gold in the local category.  
“I was very pleased with how well the weekend turned out,” said San Juan Stampede Chair Karah Nay. “I’m excited about the caliber of contests and livestock that we had, and am so grateful for all of the support that we received from the commissioners, local businesses, and the community. I’m looking forward to doing it again next year.”
This rodeo was put together by more than 25 volunteers and 45 sponsors from around the area.