Rodeo gallops into town
By BECKY LANDRESS Sentinel Writer

Last Saturday night the Bar W Rodeo Company came to the Union County Saddle Club, along with a lot of cowgirls, cowboys and a number of fans greater than the attendance of manyevents in the area.

With cars still lined down Hwy 515 as far as the eye could see, and a packed out facility, the Sheriff's Posse Rodeo Drill Team tore into the arena. Carrying various state flags as well as Old Glory and the Christian Flag, the team did not miss a beat as they got the crowd fired up around the arena. After an opening prayer, the music, food and some fantastic riding got underway.

From buckin' broncs to barrel racing and bull riding, the rodeo had it all. Some of the best riders from Hayesville, Blairsville, Blue Ridge, Young Harris, Hiawassee and Tennessee got to show what cowboys and cowgirls are made of.

About an hour into the rodeo, there was a scare as a young cowboy came flying out of the chute on a hard-to-handle bucking horse. He was thrown through the air and took a very hard hit as he landed in the dirt. EMTs were on hand and immediately entered the arena to attend to the rider. With the severe nature of his injuries, a life-flight helicopter was called in. It landed at the convenience store adjacent to the arena. The intersection was closed during the process and the rodeo was put on hold. The condition of the rider is unknown at this time.

After a moment of thought and prayer for the injured rider, the rodeo got back underway and the remaining riders continued to perform.

Bull riding and barrel racing are always two of the most popular events to wrap up the rodeo, and they were no disappointment in this one. The rodeo clowns also kept the crowd entertained throughout the night. Rodeos are in the heart and soul of many cowboys and cowgirls, and are the core of summer to many locals.