MDA Benefit Rodeo coming to Athens

What once began as a small weekend production to benefit the MDA, the annual Benefit Rodeo has grown in size to provide a week's worth of entertainment. As the countdown begins for the MDA Benefit on August 16, 17 & 18 at the Henderson County Coliseum, Smith Pro Rodeos has planned an exciting week leading up to all the rodeo action.

Keeping up with tradition, the annual In- County Team Roping will jump start festivities on Monday, August 13th at the Henderson County Fairgrounds. The roping will begin at 7:30pm with the top twelve teams advancing to the finals, which will be held during the PRCA rodeo on Friday and Saturday. Buckles will be presented to the Champion Header and Heeler.

On Tuesday, Coalminer's will again host the Kick-Off Party and Calcutta. Doors will open to the public 8:00pm with entertainment provided by up and comer Pauline Reese with the High Country Band. Pauline emerged on the Texas Music scene not long after she turned 18 and has continued to impress the public. Most recently she has released her third record that includes a duet with Willie Nelson that is quickly climbing the Texas Music charts.

Rodeo action begins on Wednesday at the Henderson County Coliseum with the PRCA slack. On Thursday the Kids Rodeo will begin at 6:30pm with kids 12 and under competing in events such as Calf Riding, Mutton Busting, Stick Horse Races, Calf Scramble and Wild Goat Milking.

Friday and Saturday, Henderson County Coliseum plays host to the biggest concert and rodeo production of the year for East Texas. PRCA rodeo action will begin at 7:30pm with concerts following at approximately 9:45pm. Friday's performance will not only showcase some of the PRCA's finest but also Country Music Star, Gary Allan. Saturday will also feature some of rodeos' elite along with Country and Rock Sensation, Cross Canadian Ragweed.

For more information on any of the upcoming events please contact Smith Pro Rodeos at (903)-489-2652 or (888) 822-5919 or check out their website at www.ssrodeo.com