Survival Guide to Sweetwater County Wyoming High Desert Adventure

October 5, 2012 Category: Uncategorized Tags:

Visit Sweetwater County – A Great Adventure!

Lately it seems like and more couples planning honeymoon and anniversary trips are looking to jump on the trend of adventure trips. We’re all about keeping up with the latest trends, so we’re turning to Jenissa Bartlett of Sweetwater County Travel and Tourism Board for the scoop on adding adventure to your travel!

For the adventure junkies out there, adrenalin-pumping activities and thrilling stories are high on the priority list. But for those with an eye on budget – or who just prefer to stay a little close to home – adventure doesn’t have to mean treks in the Amazon jungle or bungee jumping in another hemisphere. Couples can find plenty of stunning scenery and heart-pumping action here in the United States.

Start by listing interests, hobbies and vacation goals. For many, the idea of an adventure trip sounds thrilling, but what they really want to do is relax and get away from phones and computers. Most couples are seeing a combination of relaxing, romantic time and exciting action.

Then, get creative and list out the adventures and activities you’d like to do or learn. Scout out areas closer to home that offer opportunities you’re seeking. In portions of the American West, especially, are locales that feature unique combinations of water and mountain activities. Look beyond traditional tourist areas, and you’ll likely find spectacular scenery increasing and prices dropping

1. Canoeing, kayaking, tubing – Try your hand at water sports in rivers that run right through towns. The same rivers, in different spots, can be havens for advanced enthusiasts and those looking for whitewater. In southwestern Wyoming, for example, the Green River offers both gentle and advanced waters, along with a whitewater park, splash park, lazy river and tubing channel.

2. Fishing – Head west, and chances are you’ll leave behind bait fishing for the world of fly fishing in solitary tailwaters, reservoirs, streams and rivers. Guides can provide instruction and leads to some of the best coldwater fishing in the world.

3. Golfing – The famed courses of Scotland are major draws, but for pure fun – and maybe sharing a few holes with your spouse without breaking the bank – check out courses in beautiful areas off the beaten path. In western states, many courses run along scenic rivers. It is not unusual to encounter moose, deer, elk and waterfowl.

4. Biking – Mountain and road bike adventures, guided or on your own, can’t be beat for adventure and adrenalin. Choose an area with plenty of mapped and marked trails, and guided adventures for different levels. For mountain biking fun, look for features such as bike parks, trails, dirt jumps and a beginner skills area.

5. Adventures can mean serious technical climbs, as well as challenging high-country hikes, level trails and in-town walks.

6. History – History need not be mean musty museums. In western states, it’s possible to see intact wagon wheel ruts and walk by the still-visible Oregon Trail and Pony Express Route. For really old history, check out some of the dinosaur fossils, or even accompany paleontologists on real digs.

7. Horseback riding – Try lessons, short guided rides, or overnight trips. Or head to a rodeo. Local, regional and national rodeos take place throughout the west all summer long. This year, Wyoming’s Sweetwater County even hosts the largest rodeo in the world: the National High School Finals Rodeo.

As couples steer away from one-dimensional trips, adventure and activity step up. Remember that “adventure” comes in all sizes, shapes and budgets, and that couples can experience each part of the trip together or separately.

Jenissa Bartlett is executive director of Sweetwater County Travel and Tourism Board in southwest Wyoming. Located between Yellowstone and Canyonlands National Parks, Sweetwater County is home to the 91-square-mile Flaming Gorge Lake, the famed Green River, expansive deserts and rugged mountains. Jenissa can be reached at 307-382-2538 or [email protected] For more, look to Facebook and Twitter.

October 5, 2012 Category: Uncategorized Tags:

CinchTown Tour featuring the 2012 National High School Finals Rodeo

Each week RFD-TV features the CinchTown NHSRA Tour as part of its regular line-up. Not only does the show feature highlights from the final rodeo performance, but it showcases footage from around Sweetwater County and Rock Springs.

A new show premieres each Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. (MST) and re-runs again at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday.
The National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) has partnered with Cinch Jeans and Shirts to bring you the CinchTown NHSRA Tour, a fast-paced 30-minute program filled to the brim with today’s most talented Junior High and High School cowboys and cowgirls.

Since its inception in 1947, the NHSRA has created a legacy of promoting rodeo by supporting and preparing the future leaders of our society. The creation of the NHSRA Junior Division in 2004 brought the same excitement, mentorship and thrills of rodeo to a new generation of students. Now with the help of RFD-TV, millions of viewers are able to witness the hard work and dedication these students are putting into their sport of rodeo. All competitors featured are working toward a common goal: to qualify for the Junior High Finals Rodeo or the National High School Rodeo Finals; touted as the “World’s Largest Rodeo.” All year, competitors are striving to win buckles, saddles and to represent their state with a spot on the National team. It’s not uncommon to watch students move from high school to college ranks and then on to the Professional circuit.

The eyes and ears and the official main hosts on the CinchTown NHSRA Tour telecast will be none other than Jeff Medders and cowboy/actor Ty McClary. Ty McClary grew up competing in rodeo and working on big screen films (you may know him from his role in The Mighty Ducks). Ty’s experience as a rodeo cowboy and pick-up man proves invaluable as he provides knowledgeable play-by-play commentary on the CinchTown NHSRA Tour. Alongside Ty is Jeff Medders who plays the part not only of host, but producer, director and editor of theCinchTown NHSRA Tour. He has developed a sound reputation from his work hosting many prestigious events including America’s Horse and the National Finals Rodeo. Together, the two hosts make this weekly program more than just a rodeo. You’ll get to meet some of the toughest talent in the NHSRA, the youth who are the future of the great sport of rodeo.

For more information on the CinchTown Tour, visit RFD-TV

July 11, 2012 Category: Uncategorized Tags:

Looking for Adventure on Honeymoon, Anniversary Trips

By Jenissa Bartlett

In 2012, more and more couples planning honeymoon and anniversary trips are looking to jump on the trend of adventure trips. Adrenalin-pumping activities and thrilling stories are high on the priority list.

But for those with an eye on budget – or just prefer to stay a little close to home – adventure doesn’t have to mean treks in the Amazon jungle or bungee jumping in another hemisphere. Couples can find plenty of stunning scenery and heart-pumping action here in the United States.

Start by listing interests, hobbies and vacation goals. For many, the idea of an adventure trip sounds thrilling, but what they really want to do is relax and get away from phones and computers. Most couples are seeing a combination of relaxing, romantic time and exciting action.

Canoeing, kayaking, tubing – Try your hand at water sports in rivers that run right through towns. The same rivers, in different spots, can be havens for advanced enthusiasts and those looking for whitewater. In southwestern Wyoming, for example, the Green River offers both gentle and advanced waters, along with a whitewater park, splash park, lazy river and tubing channel.

Fishing – Head west, and chances are you’ll leave behind bait fishing for the world of fly fishing in solitary tailwaters, reservoirs, streams and rivers. Guides can provide instruction and leads to some of the best coldwater fishing in the world.

Golfing – The famed courses of Scotland are major draws, but for pure fun – and maybe sharing a few holes with your spouse without breaking the bank – check out courses in beautiful areas off the beaten path. In western states, many courses run along scenic rivers. It is not unusual to encounter moose, deer, elk and waterfowl.

Biking – Mountain and road bike adventures, guided or on your own, can’t be beat for adventure and adrenalin. Choose an area with plenty of mapped and marked trails, and guided adventures for different levels. For mountain biking fun, look for features such as bike parks, trails, dirt jumps and a beginner skills area.

Hiking – Adventures can mean serious technical climbs, as well as challenging high-country hikes, level trails and in-town walks.

History – History need not be mean musty museums. In western states, it’s possible to see intact wagon wheel ruts and walk by the still-visible Oregon Trail and Pony Express Route. For really old history, check out some of the dinosaur fossils, or even accompany paleontologists on real digs.

Horseback riding – Try lessons, short guided rides, or overnight trips. Or head to a rodeo. Local, regional and national rodeos take place throughout the west all summer long. This year, Wyoming’s Sweetwater County even hosts the largest rodeo in the world: the National High School Finals Rodeo.

Jenissa Bartlett is executive director of Sweetwater Travel & Tourism in southwest Wyoming. Located between Yellowstone and Canyonlands National Parks, Sweetwater County is home to the 91-square-mile Flaming Gorge Lake, the famed Green River, expansive deserts and rugged mountains. Jessica can be reached at 307-382-2538 or [email protected].

July 11, 2012 Category: Uncategorized Tags:

Six Defending Champions Return to National High School Finals Rodeo, July 15-21

Six Defending Champions Return to National High School Finals Rodeo, July 15-21

State qualifiers to compete in “World’s largest rodeo” at Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs, Wyo.

Rock Springs, Wyo. – The National High School Finals Rodeo (NHSFR) at The Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs, Wyo., is just a few days away.

More than 1,500 rodeo athletes from 41 U.S. states, five Canadian provinces and Australia will compete in the largest rodeo in the world. Six of the competitors have tasted victory before and are gunning to take home the championship buckles and scholarship prize winnings again in 2012.

Here are the championship competitors to keep an eye on as they defend their 2011 titles at this year’s NHSFR. For the complete list of contestants, visit http://www.nhsra.com/2012-NHSFR-Draw.

McKenna Wagner, All-Around Cowgirl: This cowgirl from Oklahoma won the 2011 All-Around Cowgirl title by competing in the barrel racing, where she earned 10^th place and the pole bending, where she took 4^th. In 2012, she’ll once again compete in barrel racing and pole bending.

Garrett Smith, All-Around Cowboy: This Rexburg, Idaho, native won the 2011 All-Around title as a first-time qualifier. Smith, the 2012 Idaho All-Around Cowboy, competed in five events at the 2011 NHSFR: bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping and steer wrestling. This year, he’s back to compete in team roping, bull riding, saddle bronc and boy’s cutting.

Hunter Hightower, Boys Cutting: The reigning Texas High School Rodeo Association cutting champion has his eye set on a repeat performance at this year’s NHSFR, where he wants to become a “four-time champion.” His secret to success? A belief in himself and a positive attitude.

Brandi Hollenbeck, Breakaway Roper: No stranger to winning at rodeos, Hollenbeck was also the Junior High Division champion breakaway roper in 2010 before she won the event at the high school level in 2011. Look for her to put up a good fight for her title at the 2012 National High School Finals Rodeo.

Shade Etbauer, Saddle Bronc: This Oklahoma cowboy – the son of two-time world champion bronc rider Robert Etbauer and nephew of two professional cowboys – has rodeo in his blood. Etbauer qualified again for saddle bronc in a tough Oklahoma field of competitors and is looking forward to riding for the championship buckle at the NHSFR.

Noah Lassa, Steer Wrestling: This senior from Wisconsin has qualified for the NHSFR each year of his high school career. He has his eyes set on professional rodeo after high school – a path his older brothers have already paved.

Tickets for the rodeo are $8 for adults/ $5 for children for the morning performances; $10 for adults/$8 for children at the evening performances; and $15 for adults/$10 for children for the final performance. Season passes are also available and start at $80 for adults and $45 for kids. For a complete schedule of rodeo events, visit http://www.sweetwaterevents.com/Upload/File/2012NHSFR%20ScheduleMay2012Tentative.pdf.

About Sweetwater Events Complex
The Sweetwater Events Complex boasts a 20,000 square foot exhibition building, a 42,480 square foot agricultural complex and parking for more than 1,000 vehicles. Located just five miles from downtown Rock Springs, Wyo., Sweetwater Events Complex hosts Wyoming’s Big Show; horse events and rodeos; moto-cross, BMX and stock car racing; demolition derby; concerts and more.

About National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA)

The National High School Rodeo Association, Inc. (NHSRA) is headquartered in Denver, Colo. One of the largest youth organizations in the nation, the NHSRA has an annual membership of around 13,000 students grades 6-12 from 41 states, five Canadian provinces and Australia. The teams, on average, consist of the top four in each event. Students qualify for the National High School Finals Rodeo (NHSFR) at their respective state and provincial finals. Many of the NHSFR qualifiers compete in more than one event. The National High School Rodeo Association is governed by National Directors (one representative from each state/provincial association). These volunteer board members are dedicated to the success of the NHSRA and the youth of North America. This group also plans the National High School Finals Rodeo each year.

July 2, 2012 Category: Uncategorized Tags:

10th Annual River Festival in August

Sweetwater County, Wyoming, Celebrates Green River

The action-packed 10^th Annual River Festival in Green River in Sweetwater County on August 17 and 18 is a celebration of the Green River, considered an oasis in the “High Desert Country” of southwest Wyoming.

Festivities include recurring favorites like the Cajun Shrimp Boil, as well as new activities, vendors and live entertainment. From blues and brews to canines and cars, there is something for everyone.

Tour the garden of micro-brews under the big Corona tent when the Festival kicks off on Friday at 3pm. This is followed by the Free Kids Games when kids go wild at the time-honored festival games; the Cajun Shrimp Boil and a concert throughout the evening. Root on your lucky rubber ducky as she races down the river at the Great Duck Race. A spectacular fireworks will wrap up the first night of the festival.

Saturday, August 18 starts at 6am with a bang as runners take off on the 8th annual Run with the Horses Marathon, a half marathon and a 10K run.

That’s followed by the Lucky 13 Horse Poker Run, a Car Show on Evers Park, free kids games, the Micro Brew Garden, a Dog Fetching Competition, sing the blues with Blind Dog Smokin, a dog show and at 3pm the Extreme Trail Challenge.

Visit the Green River Chamber for more information or call 307-875-5711.

Sweetwater County, located halfway between Yellowstone and Canyonlands National Parks in southwest Wyoming, is home to 10,500 square miles of pure, high desert adventure. Known as “Flaming Gorge Country,” the area is characterized by the 91-square-mile Flaming Gorge Lake, the famed Green River, expansive deserts and rugged mountains.

Activities include camping, hiking, biking, fishing, golfing, sightseeing, wildlife viewing, hunting dinosaurs, and shopping. Sweetwater County is also home to petroglyphs, pioneer trails and historical museums.

June 24, 2012 Category: Uncategorized Tags:

National High School Finals Rodeo Shooting Sports Competition Features Young Guns

National High School Finals Rodeo Shooting Sports Competition Features Young Guns
-Shooting sports competitors vie for thousands of dollars in scholarships at rodeo’s newest events-

Rock Springs, Wyo. – High school athletes are setting their sights on the National High School Finals Rodeo, which will be held at The Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs, Wyo., July 15-21. The “world’s largest rodeo” showcases more than 1,500 cowboys and cowgirls from 41 U.S. states, five Canadian provinces and Australia.

Some of those competitors will take part in the rodeo’s newest contest – the shooting sports competition, sanctioned by the National Rifle Association (NRA). The Light Rifle (.22) and Trap Shotgun events were added in 2007. More than 500 National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) members compete in shooting sports throughout the year – a number that has more than tripled since the events were first introduced five years ago. Up to four people from each state or province, plus two alternates, qualify at regional events for the shooting sports competition at the national rodeo.

At the National High School Finals Rodeo shooting sports contestants compete for $4,200 in scholarship winnings in each event. On July 17 Light Rifle contestants will converge on FMC Park in Green River to shoot in individual matches, which consist of 12 shots per person, per position (standing, kneeling, prone). The number of shots per bull is three, and the best possible score a shooter can achieve is 360 points.

For the Trap Shotgun event, which will be held July 19 at the Sweetwater County Trap Club in Rock Springs, each individual will shoot one round of trap (25 birds). The contestant who shoots the most birds wins, and ties are broken with ‘runs’ from the right and then the left. The 2011 contest proved a perfect score is possible! The shooting ranges are available so the contestants can practice their rifle skills and tune their guns prior to the competitions.

The Family Fun Event – July 18 for Light Rifle and July 20 for Trap – is an opportunity for contestants and their families to blow off a little steam. Teams of two – a contestant and a family member or friend – compete for a shot at bragging rights and the 2012 NRA/Family Fun Event Championship Belt Buckles. Family Fun Day will be held at the Sweetwater County Trap Club.

For a complete rodeo schedule visit http://www.sweetwaterevents.com/Upload/File/2012NHSFR%20ScheduleMay2012Tentative.pdf.

About Sweetwater Events Complex
The Sweetwater Events Complex boasts a 20,000 square foot exhibition building, a 42,480 square foot agricultural complex and parking for more than 1,000 vehicles. Located just five miles from downtown Rock Springs, Wyo., Sweetwater Events Complex hosts Wyoming’s Big Show; horse events and rodeos; moto-cross, BMX and stock car racing; demolition derby; concerts and more.

About National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA)
The National High School Rodeo Association, Inc. (NHSRA) is headquartered in Denver, Colo. One of the largest youth organizations in the nation, the NHSRA has an annual membership of around 13,000 students grades 6-12 from 41 states, five Canadian provinces and Australia. The teams, on average, consist of the top four in each event. Students qualify for the National High School Finals Rodeo (NHSFR) at their respective state and provincial finals. Many of the NHSFR qualifiers compete in more than one event. The National High School Rodeo Association is governed by National Directors (one representative from each state/provincial association). These volunteer board members are dedicated to the success of the NHSRA and the youth of North America. This group also plans the National High School Finals Rodeo each year.

Contacts:
Gaylene Ore, Ore Communications, 970-531-2336 | [email protected]
Chad M. Banks, Sweetwater County Events Complex, 307-352-6789 ext. 213 | [email protected]

June 24, 2012 Category: Uncategorized Tags:

Sweetwater Events Complex Announces Schedule for National High School Finals Rodeo

Sweetwater Events Complex Announces Schedule for National High School Finals Rodeo, July 15-21
-More than 1,500 cowboys and cowgirls compete over action-packed, 12 day period -
Rock Springs, Wyo. – The Sweetwater Events Complex today announced the schedule for the 64th Annual National High School Finals Rodeo, July 15-21 in Rock Springs, Wyo. The event, dubbed the “world’s largest rodeo” features more than 1,500 cowboys and cowgirls from 43 states and three countries (U.S., Canada and Australia).

Here are just a few of the highlights of the 12-day competition. In addition to the various events each day, the National High School Finals Rodeo Tradeshow is hosted from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. each day at the Tradeshow Pavilions. For a complete rodeo schedule visit http://www.sweetwaterevents.com/Upload/File/2012NHSFR%20ScheduleMay2012Tentative.pdf.

Sunday, July 15 (Boot Barn Day)
8 a.m. – Church Service by Fellowship of Christian Cowboys – Grandstand Arenas
3 p.m. – Queen Contest Introductions/Impromptu Questions – Western Wyoming Community College
7 p.m. – 1st Rodeo Performance – Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored by Wire Brothers

Monday, July 16 (Ariat Day)
9 a.m. – 2nd Rodeo Performance – Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored by McDonald’s
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. – College Fair – Exhibit Hall
7 p.m. – 3rd Rodeo Performance – Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored by Coyote Creek Steakhouse

Tuesday, July 17 (Classic Rope & Rattler Rope Day)
9 a.m. – 4th Rodeo Performance – Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored by Wyoming Work Warehouse
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – NRA Light Rifle Competition, Green River Shooting Club – Sponsored by Anadarko
12 Noon – Foundation Scramble for Scholarships Golf Tournament – White Mountain Golf Course
1 p.m. – 4 p.m. – NRA Light Rifle Competition Continues – Green River Shooting Club – Sponsored by Anadarko
1 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. – PRCA Knowledge Bowl – Exhibit Hall (awards immediately following)
1 p.m. – 5 p.m. – NHSFR Volleyball Tournament – Paul J. Wataha Recreation Area
7 p.m. – 5th Rodeo Performance – “Memorial Tribute”- Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored by Broken Arrow Field Services

Wednesday, July 18 (Resistol Hat Day)
9 a.m. – 6th Rodeo Performance – Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored by Taco Time
10 a.m. – 6 p.m. – NRS Model Search Photo Shoot – Cinch Town – Small Hall
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. – NRA Light Rifle Family Day, Green River Shooting Club – Sponsored by Anadarko
1 p.m. – 5 p.m. – NHSFR Volleyball Tournament – Paul J. Wataha Recreation Area (awards immediately following)
4:30 p.m. – Special Kids Rodeo – East Pavilion
7 p.m. – 7th Rodeo Performance – “Breast Cancer Awareness” – Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored By Loaf ‘N Jug (Contestants, spectators, fans and personnel asked to wear pink for breast cancer awareness)

Thursday, July 19 (Cinch Jeans & Shirts Day)
9 a.m. – 8th Rodeo Performance – Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored by Rocky Mountain Power
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – NRA Trap Shooting Competition – Rock Springs Trap Club – Sponsored by Anadarko
1 p.m. – NHSR Foundation Scholarship Auction – Exhibit Hall (Platinum Trailer Sells at 3 p.m., benefits NHSRA)
1 p.m. – 4 p.m. – NRA Trap Shooting Competition Continues – Rock Springs Trap Club – Sponsored by Anadarko
6:10 p.m. – Girl’s Heel-O-Matic Challenge Finals – Timed Event Arena (awards immediately following)
7 p.m. – 9th Rodeo Performance – Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored by Pepsi
10:30 p.m. – NHSRA Talent Contest & NHSFR “King” Contest – Exhibit Hall (awards immediately following)

Friday, July 20 (Gist Silversmiths Day)
9 a.m. – 10th Rodeo Performance – “Honor our Troops” – Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored by White Mountain Mall (Contestants, spectators, fans and personnel asked to wear red to honor our troops)
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. – NRA Trap Shooting Family Day – Rock Springs Trap Club – Sponsored by Anadarko
6:10 p.m. – Open Heel-O-Matic Challenge Finals – Timed Event Arena (Awards immediately following)
6:40 p.m. – NRA Shooting Competition Awards (All Shooting Events) – In Front of Grandstand Arenas Grandstands
7 p.m. – 11th Rodeo Performance – “Honor our Troops” – Grandstand Arenas – Cutting in Indoor Arena – Sponsored By “The Trona Patch” – FMC, OCI and Tata Chemicals (Contestants, spectators, fans and personnel asked to wear red to honor our troops)

Saturday, July 21 (Ram Rodeo Day)
8 a.m. – 12th Cutting Performance – Indoor Arena
9 a.m. – 12th Rodeo Performance – Grandstand Arenas – Sponsored By Ace Hardware
2 p.m. – Cutting Final Go-Round Performance – Indoor Arena
5:30 p.m. – Queen Contest Crowning Ceremony – Grandstand Arenas
6:40 p.m. – Presentation of the NHSRA Man/Woman of the Year – In Front of Grandstand Arenas Grandstands
7 p.m. – Rodeo Short Go-Round Performance – Performance Arena – Sponsored By Bank of the West

Contacts:
Gaylene Ore, Ore Communications
970-531-2336 | [email protected]

Chad M. Banks, Sweetwater County Events Complex
307-352-6789 ext. 213 | 307-872-6348 ext. 213 | [email protected]

June 24, 2012 Category: Uncategorized Tags:

National High School Finals Rodeo Presents Exceptional Kids Rodeo

National High School Finals Rodeo Presents Exceptional Kids Rodeo, July 18
High school rodeo finalists help children with special needs experience rodeo first-hand

Rock Springs, Wyo. – On Wed., July 18, a number of 2012 National High School Finals Rodeo competitors will take a break from their events to spend time with a very special group of youngsters. The Exceptional Kids Rodeo will be hosted at the Sweetwater Events Complex Indoor Arena starting at 4:30 p.m.

The free event gives the children a chance to experience rodeo excitement first-hand. Horseback riding and roping lessons are just the beginning. Bullfighters – the performers who keep the bull riding contestants safe – will also be on hand to interact with the children. Additionally, the rodeo queen contestants and the National High School Rodeo Association student officers will sign autographs and show the kids the rodeo ropes. The festivities end with refreshments for all. Each child who participates in the Exceptional Kids Rodeo will be given two tickets to a National High School Rodeo performance on July 19 so they can come back and cheer on their favorite cowboy and cowgirl.

It’s all part of the National High School Finals Rodeo, which will take place at The Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs, Wyo., July 15-21. With 13 performances over seven days, the “world’s largest rodeo” is expected to draw more than 100,000 attendees. More than 1,500 cowboys and cowgirls from 41 U.S. states, five Canadian provinces and Australia compete.

Tickets are $8 for adults/ $5 for children for the morning performances; $10 for adults/$8 for children at the evening performances; and $15 for adults/$10 for children for the final performance. Season passes are also available and start at $80 for adults and $45 for kids. For a complete schedule of rodeo events, visit http://www.sweetwaterevents.com/Upload/File/2012NHSFR%20ScheduleMay2012Tentative.pdf.

May 11, 2012 Category: Industry, Visitor Tags:

Sweetwater Events Complex Offers Tips for Attending National High School Finals Rodeo, July 15-21

Sweetwater Events Complex Offers Tips for Attending National High School Finals Rodeo, July 15-21

-‘World’s largest rodeo’ showcases 1,500 high school competitors-

Rock Springs, Wyo. – The Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs, Wyo., will host the 64^th Annual National High School Finals Rodeo July 15-21. The event is dubbed the ‘world’s largest rodeo’ and features the most talented cowboys and cowgirls from all over the world who compete for national titles, prizes and their share of thousands of dollars in college scholarships.

With so many competitors, the event promises to be action-packed. Here, Sweetwater Events Complex offers eight tips for making the most of the rodeo experience.

Plan ahead. Buy tickets early, and book a room or campsite as soon as possible. There are many lodging options – visit the Sweetwater Events Complex lodging page for more information. Tickets are available online and start at $8 for adults and $5 for children.
Take care of yourself. Rock Springs is located at about 6,300 feet above sea level, and the air is dry. Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen early and often. A wide-brimmed hat will also provide additional protection.
Wear comfortable shoes. Sweetwater Events Complex boasts 80,000 square feet of exhibition space, a 42,000-plus square foot agricultural complex, and parking for 1,000 vehicles. That’s a lot of ground to cover!
Take it all in. Rodeo events take place simultaneously in three different competition arenas, and the shooting sports competition takes place at a fourth venue. Two of the arenas are visible from the should this be one word?. Arrive early to get the best seat, and buy a program so you can plan to see each event.
Cheer for everyone. Even if they fall off their horse, don’t earn a time or knock over a barrel, show the participants some appreciation. Nothing is worse than getting to this national stage but coming up short, says Dalton Richards the 2010 All-Around Cowboy. “These kids are giving it their all, so cheer them on!”
Be prepared for non-stop action. The National High School Finals Rodeo is the largest rodeo in the world with 13 performances over seven days. There are 1,500 cowboys and cowgirls competing from all over the U.S., Canada and Australia.
Expect to be impressed. Most of the participants have been rodeoing their entire life, so the competition is fierce. As James Higginbotham, executive director of the National High School Rodeo Association puts it, “Most of these kids could compete at any level. They are just too young!”
Visit the NHSFR tradeshow. There is simply something for everyone at the tradeshow, which features nearly 300 vendors and concessions. Don’t miss your chance to take a little bit of the rodeo home.

For a tentative schedule of events for the rodeo visit http://www.sweetwaterevents.com/Upload/File/2012NHSFR%20ScheduleTentative.pdf.

About National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA)

Contacts:

Chad M. Banks, Sweetwater County Events Complex

307-352-6789 ext 213 | 307-872-6348 ext 213 | [email protected]

May 11, 2012 Category: Industry, Visitor Tags:

Sweetwater Events Complex Selected to Host National High School Finals Rodeo for Next Four Years

Sweetwater Events Complex Selected to Host National High School Finals Rodeo for Next Four Years

-‘World’s Largest Rodeo’ expected to draw more than 1,500 competitors each year,
$9 million annual economic impact expected-

Rock Springs, Wyo. – The Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs, Wyo., today announced that it has been selected by the National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) to host the National High School Finals Rodeo through the 2015 season. The 64^th Annual National High School Finals Rodeo, the first hosted by the Sweetwater Events Complex, takes place July 15-21, 2012.

The 10-day event, dubbed the ‘World’s Largest Rodeo,’ features more than 1,500 cowboys and cowgirls from 43 states and three countries – the U.S., Canada and Australia. Competitors vie for national titles, prizes and their share of thousands of dollars in college scholarships. In addition to the cowboys and cowgirls, the Sweetwater Events Complex will also host 1,800 performance horses, 130 bulls, 260 rough-stock horses, 140 goats, 500 cutting cattle, 120 steer wrestling cattle, 120 team-roping cattle, 120 breakaway roping calves, and 120 tie-down calves.

Larry Lloyd, executive director of the Sweetwater Events Complex, says the National High School Finals Rodeo will have a tremendous economic impact on Rock Springs and the other communities throughout Sweetwater County. “A study on the 2011 rodeo showed that more than 12,000 visitors spent more than $9 million over the course of the event in a single year. That translates to nearly $40 million over four years,” says Lloyd. “That’s good news for our local businesses, campgrounds, hotels, restaurants, retail shops and banks.” He adds, “We are excited to roll out our western welcome mat for this one-of-a-kind event!”

Lloyd says about $4 million in improvements have been made at the events complex to accommodate the rodeo, including the addition of one thousand campsites; power, water and sewer upgrades; and new arenas and holding facilities. NHSRA executive director James Higginbotham says the improvements played a part in Sweetwater Events Complex being selected.

“The shooting facilities in Green River and Rock Springs have been upgraded for our event, as the shooting program has become an important event for our members,” says Higginbotham. “The people of Sweetwater County and the towns of Rock Springs and Green River have made us feel very welcome. We appreciate very much the support shown by Governor Mead, county and city officials, Larry Lloyd and his staff, and the entire community.”

In addition to the NRA-sponsored shooting sports program, the National High School Finals Rodeo includes traditional rodeo performances, talent shows, a queen contest, volleyball tournaments, and more. For a tentative schedule of events visit http://www.sweetwaterevents.com/Upload/File/2012NHSFR%20ScheduleTentative.pdf.

About National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA)

Contacts:

Chad M. Banks, Sweetwater County Events Complex

307-352-6789 ext 213 | 307-872-6348 ext 213 | [email protected]

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