By Don Lowe
In just a few weeks, cowboys and cowgirls from across our Four-State Region and several other locations around the United States will make their way to the area for Rodeo Miami.
According to the Miami Area Convention and Visitors Bureau website, this two-day event is filled with exciting acts, vendors and concessions, not to mention giving all those in attendance a chance to cheer on their favorite championship rodeo performances in bronc riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, bull riding and more.
Addee Carder, who is a Rodeo Miami committee member, conveys that under its current name, this annual event “has been going on for 12 years. But a Miami rodeo has been around for 95 years.”
Interestingly, Addee Carder is one of the competitors, and it’s particularly thrilling to get to showcase her skills in breakaway roping in the community where she grew up.
“I love competing at Miami because it’s one of the best rodeos in our area,” Addee says, who has performed in this specific competition for 13 years. “You also get to see so many friends and family at the hometown rodeo. It is my favorite rodeo to go to.”
Another contestant from Miami is Terry Crow, who participates in header team roping. “It’s a real good rodeo. One of the best,” he says.
It takes several businesses and organizations to help make it one of the best, and Addee says, “Some of the key sponsors are Vance Ford, Buffalo Run Casino, High Winds Casino, Osborn Drugs and Tractor Supply.
“It is very important to have relationships with all these sponsors because without them, there would not be a rodeo. We are thankful for the relationship we do have with them.
“Some key individuals that help make this rodeo happen each and every year are Event Chairman Bob Carder, Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Amanda Davis, as well as executive committee members Buddy Harris and Kolby Ungeheuer.”
Addee also applauds Northeast Oklahoma A&M College and the City of Miami for their efforts in “helping make this event happen each year.
“The rodeo brings the community together to get to know the Western way of life.
“It also gives the local cowboys and cowgirls the opportunity to show off their talents in front of the hometown crowd.”
Addee is ecstatic to be involved with this yearly extravaganza. “We are excited to be a part of this event because the atmosphere during this rodeo is amazing.
“Seeing everyone come together to make this rodeo happen is wonderful. We are so fortunate to have many people who help make this great event a success.”
Rodeo Miami Fast Facts
When: Friday, August 26, and Saturday, August 27
Where: Miami (Oklahoma) Fairgrounds located at 1129 E. Street S.W.
Tickets: One-day tickets are $12 in advance for adults, $15 at the gate. Two-day tickets are $20 in advance for adults, $25 at the gate. Kids’ tickets (ages 4-10) are $5 nightly. Ages 3 and under are free. Note: Advance tickets can be purchased at area Westco stores, at the Miami CVB office (111 N. Main Street) or from a Queen, Teen or Sweetheart contestant.
Times: Gates at the Miami Fairgrounds open at 5 pm both days. Kids’ activities start at 6:30 pm. Rodeo performances will kick off Friday and Saturday at 7:30 pm. Note: A limited amount of VIP seating is available on-site nightly for $5 per spectator.
Mustin Bustin’: Contestants need to register nightly at the grandstands by 6 pm. Note: They must weigh 60 pounds or less, and it is a $20 to register. The winner will receive a Rodeo Miami buckle each night.
Rodeo Miami Queen, Teen & Sweetheart: Will be crowned Friday night following the first event.
Pink Night: This helps raise money for a local community member battling cancer. Fans will have the opportunity to donate to a general fund, and 100% of those donations go to the community member. Note: Rodeo contestants are encouraged to wear pink on Saturday.
For More Information: Call the Miami CVB at 918.542.4435 or follow Rodeo Miami on Facebook for updates.