By WESLIE STRATTON
Moapa Valley Progress
While the Rodeo event at the Fair was jam-packed with world champion contestants, the classic event of Mutton Bustin’ featured local champions under the age of seven who also put on a great show.
Showing grit and strength, the young cowboys and cowgirls held on tight as they each rode a sheep that sprinted and bucked when released from the chutes. Spectators filled the stands to support each rider and cheered with enthusiasm and each less than graceful dismount brought laughter and clapping.
“It was awesome!” event organizer Stuart Riggins said. “It went really well.”
Riggins said a great team stepped in and each did their part to make the event possible.
“The sheep were really rangy and hard on the kids,” he said. “It was better for spectators but hard on kids.”
Brothers Luke and Mark Nelson showed bravery by entering the event and each walked away with a $5 payout, a poster and mutton bustin’ t-shirt.
Four-year-old Luke said that watching the other kids ride was his favorite part and that while it was a rough ride he didn’t get hurt. He enjoyed spending his hard earned $5 dollar bill at the fair.
With an additional day added to the fair this year, the 2015 Mutton Bustin’ event was bigger than ever with 120 entries. There were 12 different performances within the five day Fair including championship rounds that took place each night Friday through Sunday that were announced by Zach Johnson from Van, Texas. Winners of each championship round were awarded a buckle.
Mutton Bustin’ sponsors who made the event possible include Stotz Equipment, Lin’s Market, Springs Preserve and more.
