Organizers Of Black Rodeo In Okmulgee Move Forward With Planned Event

One of the oldest and largest black rodeos in the country happens every year in Okmulgee and organizers say they plan to move forward with this year's event despite the pandemic.

Kenneth LeBlanc said the Roy LeBlanc Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo was started by his father and it means a lot to black people and the Okmulgee community. LeBlanc said he’s expecting a big turnout from across the country but he wants to make sure everyone is safe. That’s why hand sanitizing stations will be set up around the Bob Arrington Rodeo Arena and physical distancing in the stands will be encouraged.

He said masks will be required and Creek Nation Lighthorse officers who will be there working security plan to strictly enforce that rule. 

“We’re doing everything we can to protect people and to let them come out and have a good time plus be safe at the same time,” said LeBlanc

The rodeo includes bull riding, mutton busting, calf riding and ladies barrel racing. The event will be August 7 and 8 at Bob Arrington Rodeo Arena.

Grand entry is at 8:30 p.m. both nights.