This action-packed weekend will introduce families and children to an exciting sport, showcasing premier African American cowboy and cowgirl competitors and award-winning, top-caliber horses, steers and bulls.
“We’re excited to partner with the Midwest Invitational Rodeo to introduce Flint children and families to an exhilarating performance of skills that turn ordinary people into heroes, showcasing a sport and industry that Flint kids would not otherwise have the opportunity to experience,” Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley said.
Neeley added: “Children cannot become what they cannot see, and we want our kids to have the opportunity to interact with star rodeo athletes and get up-close with rodeo animals. This opens up a whole new world of possibility.”
Thrilling rodeo events
In the steer wrestling event, a cowboy on horseback chases a steer, then jumps onto the steer and brings it to the ground. An African American cowboy named Bill Pickett was the first to perform this dangerous feat, also called “bulldogging,” in the early 1900s.
Similar to steer wrestling, in the women’s steer event, cowgirls chase steers at break-neck speeds and attempt to pull a piece of tape from a steers’ back.
Bull-riding cowboys can only use one hand to hold onto a bucking bull in what’s considered the most dangerous sport on earth. The goal of bull riding is to stay on the bull for 8 seconds without being thrown off.
Cowgirls’ barrel racing showcases the athletic prowess of skilled horse-handlers, zig-zagging around barrels in the ring.
In bareback bronc riding, the cowboy holds onto a bucking horse with one hand and tries to stay on the horse for 8 seconds without touching it with his free hand.
“Our goal is to inspire and instill a sense of cultural pride as we highlight cowboys and cowgirls who carry three generations and over 100 years of history and experience into the ring,” Midwest Invitational Rodeo Owner and CEO Nicole Scott said.
Scott added: “When families and children witness the thrill of competition, adrenaline and athletic skill, they walk away with a deeper understanding of the rich history of African American rodeo.”
Audiences will be able to interact with the athletes and enjoy reenactments of Old West cowboys, outlaws, and other heroes of legend, including the real-life inspiration for the Lone Ranger. Other attractions include a food truck rally, vendors, 4H animal exhibitions and skilled trades recruiters.
The City of Flint is partnering with Explore Flint & Genesee to maximize the economic impact of this event for the Greater Flint area. Learn more: midwest-invitational.com
Scott is also inviting Flint area vendors and sponsors to get involved. Contact Scott at 630-809-8719 or visit midwest-invitational.com for more information.
Genesee County Fairgrounds is located at 6130 E. Mt. Morris Rd. in Mt. Morris Township. Gates open Friday, June 7 at 5 p.m. and Saturday, June 8 at 3 p.m. Showtimes for Friday and Saturday start at 7 p.m. An admission fee will be required. More information can be found at midwest-invitational.com.
