MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The 89th Annual Pretty Prairie Rodeo rides into town this week, continuing a tradition as the longest-running rodeo in Kansas and the state's largest night rodeo. Organizers expect thousands of fans to attend the four-night event, bringing nationally recognized rodeo talent to the small Reno County community.
Despite Pretty Prairie's population of just over 600 residents, Vice President Josh White said the town will welcome nearly 4,000 spectators each night of the rodeo.
"It's a huge event and something that we look forward to every year," White said during an interview on the BW Morning Show.
The rodeo features Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association competitors, including some of the sport's top-ranked athletes. Among those expected to compete is steer wrestler Riley DuVall, who recently won the prestigious Calgary Stampede and currently ranks among the top competitors in the world.
Serving as this year's announcer is Anthony Lucia, the reigning National Finals Rodeo announcer and a three-time PRCA Announcer of the Year. Lucia called it an honor to follow legendary announcers Hadley Barrett and Randy Corley, both members of the ProRodeo Hall of Fame.
Rather than calling the action from a traditional announcer's stand, Lucia delivers the play-by-play from horseback inside the arena.
"I'd rather be horseback," Lucia said. "I grew up being a cowboy, and it's where I'd rather be—right alongside the fans watching what I believe is the greatest sport on earth."
Joining Lucia is veteran rodeo entertainer Robbie Hodges of Granbury, Texas, who returns to Pretty Prairie for his sixth appearance. Hodges serves as both the rodeo clown and entertainer, keeping the crowd engaged during breaks in the action while also providing safety during bull riding events.
The livestock is supplied by Butler and Son Rodeo, one of professional rodeo's most respected stock contractors. Lucia noted the company has been providing championship-caliber bucking horses and bulls since 1929 and has supplied livestock for the National Finals Rodeo for decades.
The rodeo also offers activities before each performance, including mutton bustin', where young children ride sheep in one of the event's most popular family attractions. Pretty Prairie's format allows children multiple opportunities to participate before the top riders compete during the evening performance.
Gates open each evening at 6 p.m., with rodeo performances beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday is Family Night, with children ages 12 and younger admitted free. White said Friday and Saturday performances are already sold out, while tickets remain available for Wednesday and Thursday nights at the time of the interview.