COARSEGOLD – The Coarsegold Rodeo rides back into town for the 62nd year, on Friday, May 2 through Sunday, May 4. As always, the rodeo action happens at Bohna Arena on Road 415, a venue known for its top-notch views and top-quality competitors. Those in attendance can look forward to exhibits, food, vendors and pro-rodeo excitement for all ages.
Advance ticket purchase is $10, or $12 at the gate. Admission for kids 5-12 years is $5 per child, and parking is $2 each day. Food and drinks will be sold by the local 4-H club, and the event features other activities and attractions for children and adults, including a mechanical bull.
On Friday, May 2, the rodeo weekend starts with Heritage Day events for local schools in the morning, followed by the Rodeo Royalty arena competition.
Saturday, May 3, the action kicks off with the Exceptional Kids Rodeo at 11 a.m., followed by the Grand Marshall Entry Procession. After that, it’s time for the California Cowboys Professional Rodeo Association competition. Both Saturday and Sunday will feature Mutton Bustin’ which gives little kids a chance to get in on the rodeo action by holding on tight to some fierce fleece.
If you’re looking to kick up your heels, head over to the Rodeo Dance, with music by local entertainer Terry Naracon of TC Tunes, who will strut his vocal stuff and spin country and southern rock favorites. The cover charge is $5 for the dance.
On Sunday morning, May 4, Cowboy Breakfast begins at 8 a.m., followed by Cowboy Church at 9 a.m. Insiders suggest an early arrival for Cowboy Church if you want a good bale to sit on. Rodeo gates open at 11 a.m. with the Grand Entry procession at noon. The 2014 Rodeo Queen will be crowned by the current title-holder, 2013 Queen Brionna von Ah. Grand Marshals and sisters Katrina Templeton and Jana Sack will be introduced before more rodeo action starts again at 1 p.m.
Anyone who’s been involved in the planning and staging of the Coarsegold Rodeo – or any grand event – will tell you that it’s not a job that gets done without a lot of help. Therefore, the rodeo committee will be holding its second work day of the season on Sunday, Apr. 6, when volunteers will join together to sand and paint benches in the bleachers, starting at noon.
Jill Satterfield is currently the Vice President of the Coarsegold Rodeo Association and invites the community to come join in on the get-ready-for-action work day.
“The people of Coarsegold and the surrounding communities have been instrumental in the success of this rodeo,” says Jill.
“If you’re a person that belongs to or runs a service minded group, we would love to have your help this year. Many people are not aware of what the Association does with the money we make.
“Every year we accept grant applications from any Eastern Madera County youth for their 4-H animals and FFA animals. We will accept the grant applications for any reason a child may need the money.”
Since the children are the ones that ultimately benefit from the work, Jill suggests that anyone looking for something good to do on Sunday, come over to the Rodeo grounds.
“We have a couple paint sprayers but if you have one and want to use it, bring it! We also need extension cords and scrapers. People would be amazed to know how much work goes into this!”
For more information visit www.coarsegoldrodeo.com
