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By Paul Chasko

On Friday, June 6, cowboys and cowgirls returned to Cox Arena to try and garner points in an APRA-sanctioned (American Professional Rodeo Association) rodeo in Monongahela. Riders from as far away as Texas following the rodeo circuit and many local riders took part in the events – thanks to Kate and Shane Cox and several local business sponsors.

The dismount is always tricky in steer wrestling.

Despite recent rain, the arena was dry and in great shape. Kate and Shane were anxious to get their first APRA-sanctioned event of 2014 underway. Western-style riders and wranglers are happy to see a resurgence of this sport in our area.

At present, this isn't a full rodeo but the only events missing were bronc riding and bull riding. The riders took part in the following timed and scored events:

• Steer Wrestling

• Calf Roping

• Break-Away Roping

• Barrel Racing

• Team Roping

Time to warm up her horse.

The riders in the events are timed under APRA rules and amass points/cash leading to finals in September. Events and the arena are sponsored by local businesses in the Mon Valley. Most of the riders were from Southwestern PA, Ohio and West Virginia, with many from Mon Valley communities. There will be one additional Cox APRA Rodeo this summer on July 3rd.

In addition to the rodeo events, Cox also holds "fun shows" where young riders can participate in events against kids in their own age brackets and maybe come home with a ribbon or two and a jackpot prize. The fun shows typically begin in the mornings and last well into the afternoon. Fun shows are scheduled for July 12th, August 3rd , August 30th, and October 25th. It's a fun time for spectators as well – something most kids don't see every day.

Cattle sorting events are scheduled as well, which test the skill of both horse and rider in handling cattle. Cattle sortings are scheduled for July 19th, August 9th, September 6th and October 11th.

The Cox Arena is on Park Avenue Ext./State Rt. 481 and the south end of Monongahela. More details on events can be found on www.coxarena.org.

Click on "Gallery" to see a mix of photos by Paul Chasko from the last two Cox  APRA Roreos

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