With a brand new beer garden, a 20 per cent increase in junior contestants and a packed campground, the 98th Benalto Pro Rodeo was another all-around memorable success, according to Benalto Agricultural Society president Neal Arksey.
The new beer garden proved a particular highlight, said Arksey, with many attendees having expressed their appreciation for its large size and social atmosphere.
“We kind of kept the same look to it to a degree, but it’s a bigger and better facility for people to be in,” he said.
Dean Ray performed on the garden’s stage Friday and Saturday nights, while mostly pleasant weather also contributed to the event’s success. An estimated 6,000 to 7,000 people attended over three days.
“The crowds came out and it was nice to see,” said Arksey.
Entries in the Pro Rodeo were about the same as last year, he added, while entries in the Junior Rodeo were up significantly, and saw about a 20 per cent jump from last year.
Unofficial results from the Pro Rodeo are posted on Rodeo Canada’s website at www.rodeocanada.com.