story by Lily Weinacht
This is the 2nd year for the KPRA Finals to be produced at the Dodge City Roundup Arena in Dodge City, Kan. “The Roundup committee is pleased to find a way to help the KPRA grow, and by us hosting the Finals and putting a little more money in the pot, it gives the cowboys something to look forward to,” said Joel Redman, Vice President of Dodge City Roundup. “To us, the KPRA and similar associations are the grassroots – cowboys and cowgirls coming out of high school or college start here.” Thanks to the title sponsor, Boot Hill Casino and Resort, there is $12,000 added money at the 2016 KPRA Finals. “Entries are up across the board in the KPRA,” said Joel. “We could not do this without the partnership of Boot Hill Casino.
“At Boot Hill Casino & Resort, we are always looking for ways to drive tourism and partner with not-for-profits, like Roundup, which strive to highlight our rich history and heritage through the sport of rodeo. When Roundup Rodeo first approached Boot Hill Casino about hosting the KPRA, we immediately want to join in and bring more to the table,” said Diane Giardine, Boot Hill Casino & Resort General Manager.
It will be a busy weekend for the contestants and their families as they participate in three separate rodeos throughout the weekend. The go-round buckle presentation on Friday will be held at Central Station Bar & Grill, a valued sponsor of Roundup. After Saturday evening’s performance, guests can enjoy live music at the arena, and following the Sunday afternoon performance, Roundup will be providing a tasty banquet before the final awards ceremony.
Dodge City Roundup has been a long-time supporter of the sport of rodeo, celebrating their 40th year as a major PRCA rodeo that occurs during Dodge City Days in late July and early August. The committee was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2012, a distinction they have every right to be proud of. Additionally, they host a large high school rodeo in April, and the country’s largest Little Britches Rodeo each year during Memorial Day Weekend.
Roundup has an extremely active Board of Directors, and relies on over 200 volunteers each year that all contribute to the success of the organization.
