The Teulon Rodeo is set to return later this month, bringing three days of roping, racing, and family-friendly fun from Aug. 22 to 24.
Organized by the Teulon Rodeo Club, the event has grown steadily over its 14-year history, drawing hundreds of competitors and spectators from across Manitoba and beyond.
“I grew up in it,” said Dave Tarko, president of the Teulon Rodeo Club. “When I was a kid, that’s all we did on weekends. We either went to watch them or participate in them.”
The Teulon Rodeo is the final stop on the Heartland Rodeo circuit, which also includes Miami, Eriksdale, Gilbert Plains, Arborg, McCreary, Roblin, and Richer. With about 200 contestants each day, participants will compete in 12 categories, including bull riding, saddle bronc, bareback, tie down, steer wrestling, breakaway, goat tying, ladies barrel racing, team roping, and junior events such as peewee barrel racing.
For 17-year-old Carman rider Charlie Sisson, who is currently leading the bull riding standings, the Teulon event marks an exciting finish to his third year on the circuit.
“Teulon is the last rodeo before the finals,” said Sisson. “I’m excited for finals to come around and compete against all of my buddies and just have a good time overall.”
The top 10 competitors who have participated in at least 60 per cent of the season’s events will qualify for the Heartland Rodeo finals in Grunthal this September.
Alongside the action in the ring, visitors can enjoy live music, food, and family activities throughout the weekend. Friday night opens with a ceremony featuring local dignitaries, followed by live music from Big Joe’s Covers in the beer gardens from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. (no cover charge, 18+).
Concessions will be operated by the Teulon Travel Club, which is raising funds for a student trip to Europe. Guests can also take part in a 50/50 draw, shop local vendors from noon to 5 p.m., or bring kids to the Blue Bomber inflatables in the family zone. Saturday night entertainment will feature Up in Flames in the beer gardens, with a $5 cover charge.
Rodeo events begin at 3 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Admission for ages 12 and up is $10 per day. More information is available on the Teulon Rodeo Club’s Facebook page.
