HOLD ON TO YOUR SEAT

Written by Betsy O’Leary

If you’re looking for a different kind of treat for Dad on Father’s Day weekend, head on up to Amite on June 14 – 15 and attend the family-oriented Tangipahoa Pro Rodeo and Music Fest. Bobby Smith and his company, Rockin’ S Rodeo, are putting on the annual event, now in its 15th year.

Smith is no stranger to the world of rodeo. He spent roughly 15 years on the rodeo circuit, traveling around the United States as a bull fighter. As he got older, his body rebelled, as the lifestyle of a bull fighter often leaves permanent injuries.

Smith tried judging a few rodeos, but he found it wasn’t for him. He had a wider vision for his future that allowed him to remain longer in the industry he loved.

Rodeo

Pairs Well with Country Music

Smith’s love of rodeo is matched by his admiration for country singer Neal McCoy. His dream was to one day put on a professionally sanctioned rodeo that was capped with a concert by his favorite artist.

This year his dream will become a reality, as Neal McCoy headlines the June event with his Friday night concert at the rodeo site, Florida Parishes Arena in Amite. Glen Templeton will also be performing on Saturday night at the rodeo.

What to Expect at the Rodeo?

Riders who have cards sanctioned by the LRCA, NCPRA, PRCA can enter the various competitions. Because this is a fully sanctioned Louisiana Rodeo Cowboys Association (LRCA) event, they will have all the traditional rodeo events, including:

Bareback riding

Saddle bronc

Calf roping

Breakaway roping

Team roping

Barrel racing

Bull riding

But those are just some of the exciting events rodeo attendees will experience. There will also be appearances by the Tickfaw native rodeo clown, Rick Young “Never Be Old.” The clown is a self-described “old wore out bullfighter rodeo clown” who was formerly known as the “Ragin’ Cajun.” Now 90, but with no sign of hanging up his face paint or spurs, his moniker is the “Agin’ Cajun.” He will be joined by one of the top clowns in rodeo, Rudy Burns, the hilarious “Crazy Cajun.”

Bring the Kids!

While the entire rodeo is great family fun, Saturday, June 15, will feature several youth programs during the day. The Amite Fire Department will be doing presentations on fire extinguisher safety, and there will be a smoke house demonstration and a firetruck on display. There’s also a planned boating safety presentation. As a bonus, each child entering the gate receives a free bandanna from event sponsor Wrangler.

Where to Get Tickets?

Guests can save money by buying tickets now on the website, tangipahoaparishprorodeo.net. Tickets are $30 per night or both nights for $50, and they include the rodeo and the concert. All children five and under get in free. Tickets at the gate are $40.

Tickets will also be sold at local outlets which will be announced closer to the event date. Also, watch for future announcements about upcoming VIP package information on seating and other perks at the rodeo.