The Miami Fair and Rodeo was the place to be last weekend, June 28th and 29th, with the Heartland Rodeo Association putting on a rodeo at the fairgrounds on Saturday and Sunday.
A longstanding tradition
Miami Agricultural Society President Troy Turner has worked in the community for years, and as lead organizer of the fair, has seen the community show up for each other. “Volunteering is a great thing” shared Turner. “This community is big about that, and my entire family’s into it too... we love putting on events for the community.”
The Miami Fair has been a longstanding event in the community for over 100 years, but the rodeo is a more recent addition. “This is... our 30th Heartland Rodeo, and 32nd rodeo that we put on.” shared Turner. “Rodeo has just been something that we’ve enjoyed in this community.”
As for Turner’s favourite part of the festivities? “My daughter and my wife both rodeo” Turner laughed. They both compete in barrel racing and roping. “But I just love...when people come together and enjoy.”
‘Having you guys cheer us on makes us more motivated, more confident’
Paige Ferguson has been doing rodeos for four years now, “I want to say 65% of my life, I’ve been with horses and animals”. In the Heartland Rodeo Association today, she participated in barrel racing.
As to why she does rodeo, Ferguson shared that the community is very important. “Everyone’s so kind... it’s like family in a sense.” she noted. “You travel everywhere, and it’s honestly beautiful... it’s a great place just to see friends and hang out”
Not sure if the rodeo is for you? For Ferguson, the audience is core to her experience as a competitor. “It’s honestly very lovely to watch, and I think you guys would love it... having you guys cheer us on makes us more motivated, more confident.”
Ferguson also had this to share for those interested in the world of rodeo: “If you’re thinking of riding... just do it. Don’t be scared of it.” Ferguson added: “Honestly, animals are one of the best things you could be around.”
