Last year, John O'Brien decided to throw a rodeo to raise awareness for his new barn. Now it looks like it could become an annual event.

O'Brien will host his second annual rodeo Saturday on his Moravia farm. While the afternoon hoedown will have many of the same attractions and competitions as last year's, there will be some new fun added to the lineup, too.

“I got a lot of feedback last time from people who had a great time and enjoyed bringing their kids,” O'Brien said. “This is still meant to be a family function.”

O'Brien's rodeo will still feature the popular events like bull and bronco riding. There will also be mutton bustin' (sheep riding for children).

However, this year sees the addition of barrel racing, a rodeo classic. And people who purchase advance tickets will be entered into drawings for door prizes that include gift certificates and concert tickets.

O'Brien said last year's rodeo attracted more than 800 people, and the event went smoothly enough to merit few changes. But smooth does not mean simple, and a rodeo takes a lot of work and organization, he said.

“Fifteen people are running around like chickens with their heads cut off the whole day,” he said.

Born out of ranching practices with cattle and horses, competitive rodeos are governed by numerous leagues and organizations. Some professional events like bull riding have enjoyed national exposure through television broadcasts.

The circuit that competes at O'Brien's rodeo is not professional. But he said there is still something captivating about watching the sport.

“It's just man versus beast; there is no one else,” O'Brien said. “When you're riding a bull, you only have to sit on it for eight seconds. But that's almost a lifetime to the rider.”

O'Brien said he would like to keep the rodeo as a yearly party as long as it can support itself. He said he likes the idea of providing something for families to do without having to break the bank.

“We're not out here to make a killing,” O'Brien said. “This is local enough so people don't have to travel.”

Christopher Caskey

253-5311 ext. 282

christopher.caskey@lee.net

If you go.

What: Rodeo

When: 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16

Where: O'Brien's Farm and Stables, 2158 Dumplin Hill Road, Moravia

Cost: $10 adults; $5 for children ages 6 to 13; free for children 5 and younger

Info: Visit www.obriensfarm-andstables.com