Competitors wrangle, wrestle and ride at MSU Pavilion

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — People put on their cowboy boots this Saturday and headed on over to the MSU Livestock Pavilion for the Spartan Stampede.

Hundreds were there, watching competitors wrangle cattle, wrestle steers and ride bulls. It was packed in the pavilion–in fact, organizers told 6 News they’d sold out all four shows.

This is the 54th years for the Spartan Stampede, and it’s made possible by the students in the Michigan State University Rodeo Club.

The show started at 2 p.m. and featured multiple competitions. The goal for the bull and bronco riders was to stay on the animal for eight seconds as it tries to buck them off.

Another part of the competition was roping. That’s where contestants try to tie down an animal in the shortest amount of time possible.

MSU’s Rodeo Club Advisor told 6 News that competitors from 14 states and two countries had come out to take part in the event.

He said that in the past few years, they’ve been selling out. 6 News asked him why he things this is such a popular performance.

“Part of it is just the tradition and the western heritage,” said MSU Rodeo Club Advisor Brian Nielsen. “You know, most boys and girls, when they were little, want to be a cowboy or cowgirl, and here’s their chance to put a hat on for the week and their boots, come out and kind of live a little of that.”

That’s the case even if you’re not prepared to ride the bucking bull or bronco yourself. “You know, know, most of us love animals, you know. Whether you’re involved with rodeo or not,” Nielsen said. “And it’s your chance to come out there, spend some time with it. And again, play cowboy or cowgirl for the weekend.”

There will be another show Saturday night at 8 p.m., and a show on Sunday at 2 p.m. Winners will be announced at the end of Sunday’s show.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.