Oklahomans Of All Ages Competing In Pawhuska’s Cavalcade Rodeo

Thousands will be in Osage County this week for the 75th annual Cavalcade Rodeo. More than 1,000 people will compete in different events. 

“Over the years we started camping out in sleeping bags and tents and things like that and it was mainly men that came. Now it’s turned in to a family event," said Tom Schick.

Schick has been coming to the Cavalcade Rodeo since 1959. He said one great change over the years is allowing kids to compete, like 13-year-old Brooklyn Wetzel. 

“It’s nerve-racking having everyone watching you, but when you get out there – just be you. That’s all you have to do," said Wetzel.

She and her club are from Mannford and rode their horses to the Cavalcade Rodeo. 

“Riding up here means, it’s like traditional. Like Christmas is traditional when you open presents and all that. It’s just more fun," said Wetzel.

While the event is fun, it's also about big money prizes. 

“As far as overall prizes between the Cavalcade buckle, and our 75th commemorative awards that we’re giving, we’re looking at probably another $30,000. So, we’re probably talking close to $60,000 in cash prizes that’s available here for these individual contestants," said Jeff Bute.

This is Bute's 17th year to serve as the Chairman of the Cavalcade. He said it's always a great show. 

“I’ve done the pony express race, the chuck wagon race, that kind of thing. That was in my younger years. So now all I do is drive wagons and stagecoaches, go in the parade and the grand entries and sit back and watch," said Schick. 

For more information about the Cavalcade Rodeo, click here.