Mid-Western Rodeo to return July 1-3
By Holly Neumann
After having to cancel its 2020 event, the Manawa Rodeo Committee has announced that the Mid-Western Rodeo will be back in action this year.
The rodeo is scheduled for July 1-3 at Hoffman Memorial Park in Manawa.
Show times are 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, July 1-2; and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 3.
“Last year was pretty traumatic for me,” rodeo chairman Pete Ziebell said. “I sometimes don’t realize how much a part of my life the Manawa rodeo has become.”
The cancellation of the event last year was something that has never been dealt with before.
“Talking to people around this area, it was obvious the fans were a little taken back,” Ziebell said. “As far as businesses go, I know a few commented on the lack of the rodeo, but I believe most were already set back from the (COVID-19) pandemic and frustrated in general.”
This makes the rodeo’s return more important, according to Ziebell.
“I believe it really will help the people to get back some normal in their lives,” he said. “This year, we are adding girls’ breakaway roping. This is another event for the girls of the World Championship Barrel Racing to showcase some of their other skills.”
Ziebell said he can’t wait to get back to the rodeo business.
“I believe this is truly a community event and it takes the whole community to pull this off,” he said. “We are a little behind, but we’re making up some ground now.”
Rodeo fans are encouraged to visit www.facebook.com/midwesternrodeo for updates on the show.
Tickets will go on sale on March 1 and can be purchased by visiting manawarodeo.org or calling 800-74-RODEO. Reserved seating is $18 for adults and $9 for children. General admission is $16 for adults and $7 for children.
Tickets will cost an additional $1 at the gate.