Bear Claw Casino hosted their annual Buck-A-Rama June 13 and 14. Great entertainment was enjoyed by many. Though rain threatened both days the show went on.
Riders from across Canada and a few Australian cowboys attended the rodeo. Local riders including Jesse Lawrence from Kennedy, Tad Littlechief from White Bear, and Teagon Hodgson from Manor all competed in the bull riding competition.
Winston Bear was present as the Calcutta auctioneer. Prime Time Rodeo was the production company involved with the rodeo. Barry Bogeine announced at Buck-A-Rama, as Gordon Marks provided entertainment as the rodeo clown. Bogeine and Marks had a great dynamic, keeping the crowd in stitches between riders. As the thunderstorm settled in on June 13 Marks even pulled out a wetsuit to wear, which invoked laughs all around. Many fans endured the weather in order to enjoy the show. Most stayed until a break was called, on account of lightning cracking nearby. The crowds dwindled slightly after the storm had passed, but everyone enjoyed themselves greatly.
On Wednesday, June 13, the bull riders put in a valiant effort; but, none were able to hang on for the win. This means that the bounty bull on Thursday was worth $2,000 and the Bear Claw Casino and Hotel buckle from the evening was given to Derek Glenn in a coin flip. The saddle bronc competition was won by Rhett Fitzpatrick. He won cash for placing first and for riding No Fooling, the bounty horse of the night in the Short Go, as well as a buckle. Anthony Thomas, one of the Aussie cowboys, took the bare back win. He drew Welcome Edition for the final ride, which was also the bounty horse. Thomas therefore took home cash and the buckle from the evening.
June 14, saw Clayton Strutt win the bare back competition, while Brady Dinwoodie was able to win the saddle bronc event. The bulls proved to be too tough again, knocking each rider off before the seven seconds could sound. Riders were again drawn for the Short Go, both being bucked off it was Glenn who won the buckle in another coin toss. The winner's of the bounty horses were Brady Bertrum on Just Fooling in the bare back competition and Dinwoodie in the saddle bronc division on Betty Boop.
The cash prize intended each evening for the winning bull rider was split between all of the cowboys entered in the event, since none were able to claim victory.
Those that won the events were entered into a poker game that evening. Those participating in the rodeo were excited to have a little cash in their pockets and entertainment before joining their respective rodeo circuits for the summer.
It was a completely free event that boasted fun for the whole family. Despite the threat of cancellation due to bad weather Buck-A-Rama was greatly enjoyed by those in attendance.
