Grab your boots and hat, the rodeo is coming to town.
The Angelina Benefit Rodeo is riding on through April 26-29 at the George H. Henderson Expo Center in Lufkin. Rodeo officials kicked-off festivities Tuesday afternoon with Rodeo Coordinator Mike Mathis announcing sponsors and performers that will be at this year’s event during Tuesday’s Round Up held at the Expo Center.
“There’s Christmas, there’s your wife’s birthday or that special someone, and then there’s rodeo,” Mathis said.
There is plenty of rodeos in and around East Texas, if you want to go find them. …But the one we have here, we consider to be very special, ” he added. “The same quality guys that were in Houston, they’re going to be here. It doesn’t matter which world champion you want to talk about, he’s going to be in Lufkin. He’s going to ride here.”
Rodeo Hero, Jimmy Brown, a resident at the Lufkin State Supported Living Center, made his debut at Tuesday’s Round Up.
“Jimmy is someone, if you’ve wondered about handicaps, problems and determination, he fits that bill. I think at the ripe age of eight-weeks-old, an automobile accident cost a problem for Jimmy. From his eye site, to ultimately seizures, to a host of other problems,” Mathis said. “Easily he could have quit, but thank goodness for people and places like the Lufkin State Supported Living Center. He’s become a more of a productive person. …He plays the guitar, sings gospel music, that’s a part of his function at the Lufkin State Supported Living Center. …He’s able to do word work, and a host of other things because there are places like that for him to be.”
The Center is one of the many places the Rodeo will benefit this year, Mathis said.
“They are a part of what we do each year and why we do it,” he added.
Mathis announced bull fighting is back this year for the specialty act. During a competitive fight, the bullfighter has 60 seconds in which to impress judges with style, control and level of difficulty. Meanwhile, the bull can earn up to 50 points for speed aggression and intensity.
“We’ll bring a a great show, I can promise you that,” Mathis said.
For more info on Angelina Benefit Rodeo, visit their website by clicking here. Tickets are available April 3 at Boot Barn Western Wear at Lufkin Mall or contact Rodeo officials at (936) 632-7445.
