The 23rd Interlakes BCRA Rodeo will hit the ground flying with all of the Wild West excitement its reputation is built on at the Interlakes/Roe Lake Community Grounds on Aug. 3-4.
The main events start at 1 p.m. both days and go to around 5 p.m., but on Sunday, people can take in the slack events that begin at 9 a.m.
Get there early both days, as the Interlakes Highway 24 Lions Club will be hosting a pancake breakfast at 8 a.m.
The Cariboo Cowgirls Drill Team of Williams Lake will perform choreographed patterns and manoeuvres on horseback during the opening ceremony of both days. The team has been a staple at the Williams Lake Stampede for a number of years.
Jay Savage from Cranbrook returns as the announcer and Wild West Entertainment Rodeo Company will provide the rough stock.
Wendy Zailo, one of the key co-ordinators, says the rodeo committee put on a good show last year and it plans to keep the program much the same.
There's a free pig scramble for youngsters at the intermission both days.
There will be a mutton-bustin' event for children up to 50 pounds (22.7 kilograms). The cost is $5 and there will be prizes along with the thrill of riding on the back of a sheep.
Zailo says a couple of rodeo clowns will be in the arena for the “wild and wooly events.” She notes their rodeo is now required to have two clowns to ensure adequate safety for those in the arena.
A concession stand and refreshment garden will be open all weekend to satisfy appetites and thirst.
Rodeo admission cost is $10/adults; $5/seniors and children six to 12 years; and five and under get in free.
There will be a rodeo dance this year with live music by Union Jack at the Interlakes Community Hall on Aug. 3, from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance until Aug. 2 at RE/MAX Country Lakes Realty at Interlakes Corner, or on Aug. 3 in the rodeo beer garden.
For ticket information, call Call Louise Cleverly at 250-593-0121.