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Nation’s Best Return to Deadwood for 87th Days of ‘76 Rodeo; Best Rodeo, No Bull

DEADWOOD – 6/30/2009 –  To see some of the nation’s best cowboys and cowgirls at one of the top outdoor rodeos in the country, plan a trek to Deadwood for the 87th annual Days of ‘76 Rodeo July 21-25.

The Days of ‘76 started as small celebration of Deadwood’s past. Over time, the celebration evolved to include one of the nation’s most highly rated rodeos, being honored by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association more than nine times, and staying true to its motto: “Best Rodeo, No Bull.”

The PRCA named the Days of ‘76 Small Outdoor Rodeo of the Year four times and Midsize Rodeo of the Year each year from 2004 to 2008. In 2007, the Days of ‘76 was also named the Badlands Circuit Rodeo of the Year. "Cowboys and stock contractors choose the Rodeo of the Year," according to Ron Burns, Days of ‘76 Committee Member, "so being bestowed the honor is a “nice tribute to community.”

The Days of ’76 also includes parades down Deadwood’s historic Main Street on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. The rodeos are held each day July 21-25, and rodeo events will include 500 to 600 of the nation’s finest rodeo stars competing in bareback riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, team roping, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding. All of the competitors are PRCA card holders, many of which make the national finals in Las Vegas.

“You’re going to see the best of the best, the best cowboys against the best stock,” Burns said.

This year’s show will also include the antics of nearly 40 clowns for Rodeo Clown Reunion. Also the Belgian Hitch, with team horses nearly 17 hands high, will be on display in stables at the rodeo grounds. Fans can also see reenactments of the killing of Wild Bill Hickok and a stage coach holdup during the competition, along with a host of other events in Deadwood.

The rodeo is a nonprofit event made possible through sponsors, previous ticket sales and the City of Deadwood. The Days of ‘76 Rodeo Committee plans and organizes the rodeo. Also, a 20-person board of directors and countless volunteers help make the event memorable.

For tickets, contact Black Hills Central Reservations at 1-888-838-BULL, or purchase online at blackhillsvacations.com. For lodging or information on Deadwood, visit www.deadwood.org.


For More Information:
Pat Roberts
Rodeo Chair

Ron Burns
Parade Chair

(605) 578-2872
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