NISLAND—The Ranch Rodeo was the highlight of Thursday evening, August 1, at the Butte-Lawrence county fair. Teams made up of local cowboys and cowgirls performed at the Nisland Fair Rodeo, also known as the NFR! Four members were required for each team, and teams had to fulfill two of the three following member conditions: one youth (aged 13 & under), one senior (over 55), or one female.
The rodeo kicked off with the boot race, which required team members to remove both of their cowboy boots and deposit them at the far end of the arena. Each team member then had to run via horseback down to the end of the arena, dismount, find his or her boots, put them on, and remount the horse. They then had to join hands with another member of the team and race back to the starting line as fast as possible.
Other NFR events included the Relay Race, Horse Catch, Steer Ribbon Roping, and the Mystery Race. Contestants gave it their all in the arena, showcasing the importance of teamwork and entertaining all who watched.
Teams were awarded points if they placed in each event. In the end, it was Team Tetrault that took home first place. Finishing second was Mackaben Excavating; third place went to Miller Crow Creek Ranch; and in fourth place was the Lei Family.
This year’s buckle sponsors were Crowser Gravel Pit, Scoggins Vet, St. Onge Livestock, and Tetrault Ranch.