Saddle up, the Oakley Rodeo returns in June

The Oakley Rodeo returns for its 88th year, and tickets are already selling out after being on sale for 24 hours. Photo: Tom Smart.

OAKLEY, UT—The 88^th annual Oakley Rodeo will be four days of fun with four rodeo performances each day, fireworks, and a specialty act, trick rider Haley Proctor.

Former Oakley City Mayor and rodeo chairperson Wade Woolstenhulme says the Oakley rodeo is host to some of the best athletes, both human and animal in the country, and has doubled in size from last year. Top-notch rodeo producer, Pete Carr Pro Rodeo from Texas will be bringing in his prized stock, attendees can expect a great rodeo experience.

“We will have guys here from all over the world, including Brazil, Mexico, and Canada,” Woolstenhulme said. “Most participants start in elementary school, then move to 4H in junior high and high school. There is even a college-level association where college students compete. When you feel you are good enough you buy a permit through the PRCA and start participating in the smaller rodeos and work your way up.”

Rodeo events are not for the faint of heart and require very seasoned athletes to have a fair competition. As a former competitor in rodeo himself, Woolstenhulme loves the western culture and individualized competition that rodeo provides. Pure horsemanship and athleticism also provide a thrilling atmosphere; where man is up against beast.

The four days of events include:

• Bareback riding
• Steer wrestling
• Team roping
• Saddle Bronc riding
• Girls breakaway roping
• Girls barrel racing
• Boys tie-down roping
• Bull riding

“The rodeo culture is a very patriotic and religious community,” Woolstenhulme said. “That is a big part of rodeo, it is a good family event.”

In addition to the rodeo on Independence day, members of the community can participate for free in the Oakley parade, patriotic program, food truck court, and the junior rodeo, which includes chicken chasing, mutton busting and more.

Rodeo dates are:

 FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. (sold out)

SATURDAY, JULY 1, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. (sold out)

MONDAY, JULY 3, 2023 at 7:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, JULY 4, 2023 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at www.etix.com/ticket/v/26741/oakley-city-recreational-complex