Back in the saddle again

The Miami County Fair rodeo will be in new hands this year, as the Grand River Rodeo Co. will be taking the reins for the first time since 1999. Rodeo performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 24, and at 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 25, at the fairgrounds arena. Both performances will open with a grand entry at 7:30, and flags will be presented by cowgirls on horseback throughout the performances.

The rodeo will include bull riding, calf roping and other events. Circle C Country Supply of Louisburg is providing the added money in the bull-riding event as the rodeo seeks to attract more bull riders this year.

The Miami County Fair Queen and Princess will be crowned at 7 p.m. before the start of Thursday night’s rodeo.

The Grand River Rodeo Co. has been a staple in the rodeo world for more than 25 years. The company produces more than 50 rodeos per season.

The fair rodeo is sanctioned by the United Rodeo Association, the Missouri Rodeo Cowboy’s Association and the Interstates Rodeo Association. The rodeo is open to local entries as well as association cowboys and cowgirls.

How to enter

Pre-entry is required. Call-in entry is July 21: (641) 773-5232. Rough stock books open at 8 a.m. and timed-event books open at 10 a.m. All books close at 5 p.m. For fees, purse and more details, go to www.unitedrodeo

association.com.