Historic rodeo set for Aug. 11-12
It is just over a month away from the start of the Okmulgee Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo. Now in its 68th year, the rodeo will be held Aug. 11-12, at the Bob Arrington Arena at the Muscogee Nation Claude Cox Omniplex.
Last week, First Family Federal Credit Union presented Kenneth LeBlanc and the Okmulgee County Roundup Club with a check for $1,000.
“First Family Federal Credit Union is proud to support the Okmulgee County Roundup Club and the Roy LeBlanc Rodeo,” FFFCU Representative April Mason said. “We encourage and challenge other area businesses to help support this historic event.”
Other major sponsors include the City of Okmulgee, One Fire Casino and Yeti.
Promoter Kenneth LeBlanc is grateful for the community and business support of the long-running event. He added that even more sponsorships are being accepted as added money, which currently stands at $8,500.
The Roy LeBlanc Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo is the nation’s oldest African-American rodeo, one of the state’s longest running rodeos and one of the largest African-American sporting events in the nation.
Entertaining audiences since 1956, the Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo also features a festival and parade.
About 300 talented participants from around the country come to Okmulgee to compete in the various events including Bull Riding, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Pony Express, Ladies Steer Wrestling, Ladies Barrel Racing, Wild Horse Race, Jr. Barrels (12 and under) and Jr. Breakaway (15 and under).
The annual rodeo parade will be on Saturday, Aug. 12, beginning at 4 p.m. in downtown Okmulgee.
The rodeo begins at 8 p.m. both Friday and Saturday, and admission is $15 per night, or save and buy a weekend pass for $20. Mutton busting is scheduled at 7 p.m. each night before the rodeo begins.
The Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo has drawn many well-known cowboys, including many from right here in Okmulgee County. It also draws many visitors from around the country, and even some from foreign countries.
For more information, call Kenneth LeBlanc at 918-756-0761 or visit the Okmulgee Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo Facebook page for updates.
