International Finals Rodeo Comes To Oklahoma, Taking COVID-19 Precautions

Cowboys and cowgirls are in Oklahoma this week to complete for a World Champion title in eight different events.

The Lazy E Arena in Guthrie is hosting the International Finals Rodeo this year and is ready for action in day two Friday, but things are a little different this year because of COVID-19.

The competition will only operate at 50 percent capacity to allow for physical distancing and masks are also strongly recommended.

Organizers said are looking forward to the event after so many competitions had to be canceled.

“Some rodeos weren't able to happen in different parts of the country. In a normal year, we sanction about 450 rodeos across North America. This year, we were closer to 130,” said Dale Yerigan, General Manager of the International Professional Rodeo Association.

Organizers said because of a lack of activity with rodeos due to a COVID-19, prize money for this event has been slightly reduced.

The prize money is about $33,000 per event -- in the seven standard events -- with a total cash payout up to $300,000.

The first IFR event Friday starts at 11 a.m. and the final performance is Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m.