By: Samantha Smith
This year’s Eastern New Mexico University College Daze Rodeo will take place at the Lewis Cooper Arena, September 21-23 starting at 7 p.m. each night. For those who don’t know, the ENMU rodeo team is the most decorated sports team at the university, and they host only one “home rodeo” each year. This means there’s only one chance to take advantage of the free admission with a student ID, to watch the best competitors in the Southwest Region, and to cheer on your fellow Greyhounds. In the 2015-2016 season, the ENMU College Daze Rodeo was awarded “Best Rodeo in the Southwest Region,” which is voted on by competitors and coaches from every team in the Southwest Region. Below you can find more information on what to expect at this event.
Last year, the ENMU women’s rodeo team had plenty of success in both the region and the national finals held in Casper, Wyoming. Of the four competitors who qualified for Casper last year, three will be returning this year to compete as greyhounds once again. One of the competitors who will be returning is a fan-favorite, Tawny Barry, from South Dakota. At last year’s event in Casper, she was able to earn the title of “National Champion Goat Tyer.” This means any spectators at this year’s rodeo will have an opportunity to watch a national champion compete. Unfortunately, Barry and her family have recently suffered the loss of her mother, Cleo Barry, after a long battle with cancer. We are asking that any fans and competitors wear pink on Saturday night to not only support the Barry family, but to also support anyone who has dealt with or is currently dealing with this awful disease. Next year, we will be offering a scholarship in Cleo’s honor as she was a great woman who will be missed by many.
ENMU rodeo team members are able to practice in the Lewis Cooper Arena every day which allows ENMU competitors to gain an advantage on the other competitors from different schools. Last year, over 520 competitors from ENMU and 17 other schools gathered at the Lewis Cooper Arena to compete. This year, we expect just as many, if not more competitors. ENMU will have over 40 contestants of our own competing this year, coming from all ends of the continent, including but not limited to: Oregon, Idaho, Colorado, Arizona, and Canada. You’ll be able to spot your fellow greyhounds in black and green vests throughout the weekend. The College Daze Rodeo is looking to be yet another successful event, and the rodeo team is looking forward to your support.
