When you think of buckin’ bull riding cowboys, or agile barrel racing cowgirls, you may think Texas, Wyoming, Montana, or any place other than Minnesota. But yes, right here in the land of 10,000 lakes, high school rodeo is alive and kickin’.

Pictured: Blake Dunsmore, a 9th grader from Forest Lake at a Fergus Falls rodeo.

Minnesota has 140 proud members in the National High School Rodeo Association which was established in Texas in 1947 to promote good conduct and sportsmanship and encourage youth to stay in school. Today Minnesota members exemplify this tradition in no less than a dozen high schools throughout the state. Exciting audiences and fans with their youthful exuberance and highly competitive nature, these 9th- through 12th-grade cowhands exhibit a spirit and determination that even the pros can’t match.

Everybody loves a rodeo, and here’s an opportunity to gather up your little cowpokes and herd the whole family off to the upcoming Minnesota High School Rodeo. It is scheduled for May 10, 6 p.m., at Heidelberger Sales Barn. Go south of Pine City, on I-35. Take Hwy. 70 (Rock Creek exit) three miles west. Rodeo on north side of road.

There will be both cowgirl and cowboy events ranging from saddle bronc riding and calf roping to barrel racing and bull riding.

Tickets are $6 and children 5 and under free.

For more info contact Dick Dunsmore (651) 464-6460.

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