64th Annual Ralph Morgan Rodeo begins Friday

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April 17, 2008

By Ida Brown / senior staff writer The Meridian Star Thu Apr 17, 2008, 12:03 AM CDT

An estimated 130 contestants from more than a dozen states will be in competition Friday and Saturday during the 64th Semi-Annual Ralph Morgan Rodeo.

"Cowboys and cowgirls from Missouri to Florida will compete," said Linda Clayton, who helps organize the semi-annual rodeo.

Events will include bull riding, women's barrel racing, team roping, calf roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, and bareback riding.

Held every April and August, the rodeo has been long considered a rich tradition in Lauderdale. In recent years, shows have attracted overflowing crowds.

"This is a great event that's held on beautiful grounds in a clean, safe environment," Clayton said. "It's a great place for the family to come to enjoy action-packed entertainment from a large list of contestants."

Professional rodeo announcer Mike Mathis of Lufkin, Texas, will serve as emcee. The color guard from NAS Meridian will present the colors at the opening each night.

After a brief absence, world-renowned rodeo clown Lecille Harris returns to provide entertainment.

"Lecille is always a crowd favorite," Clayton said. "This is his 52nd year of clowning, so he no longer comes to the radio every year. So we're really excited to have him ... His kids dance competition is a crowd pleaser."

There also will be a children's calf scramble. During the event, two or three calves are turned loose in the arena with a ribbon on their tail. Whoever can catch the calf, remove the ribbon and get to the judge first wins a prize.

And, the U.S. Army will display their Hummer H3, along with laser simulators for spectators to test, Clayton said.

In addition to clowns and competitions, the rodeo also will include concessions � hamburgers, hot dogs, corn dogs, barbecue, fish sandwiches, nachos, snow cones and other favorites. Concession stands will be manned by churches and community groups. T-shirts and toys also will be available for purchase.

"It's an action packed weekend no one will want to miss," Clayton said. "The Morgans provide this PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) rodeo for our area that you normally would only see on TV � unless you drive several hundred miles to go to. It's not uncommon for spectators to come from a 150-mile radius to this great event. We're encouraging everyone to come join us for a great weekend."

Want to go?

What: 64th Semi-Annual Ralph Morgan Rodeo

When: Friday and Saturday

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Where: Ralph Morgan Rodeo Arena, Lauderdale

Tickets: $10, adults; $6, children (12 and under)

Information: (601) 679-8861

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