Jay rodeo returning April 23

Cancelled by coronavirus last year, cowboys and cowgirls return

Although COVID shut down the Jay Pro Rodeo last year, the event will be back in full swing at 8 p.m., Friday, April 23 and Saturday, April 24, at Ted May Arena, located at 4200 Highway 4 in Jay. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids age 12 and under and free admission for anyone who presents a flyer handed out to local elementary schools prior to the event. Parking is free.The rodeo hosts the 3R Rodeo Company from Jemison, Ala., and features pro bull riding, saddle broncs, calf and team roping, steer wrestling and women's breakaway and barrel racing."We will have crawfish and a fresh-made donut booth on site this year," said rodeo organizer Frederick Barrow. "We'll have our usual candies, cotton candy, hot dogs, burgers, fries, drinks and other foods there."Barrow said on Saturday night, the original board, who founded the rodeo, will be honored, as well as sponsors who have sponsored the event for all 20 years it has taken place. The kids will enjoy the Calf Scramble and the Mutton Bustin events scheduled for both nights to participate in.Barrow said there will be a mechanical bull to ride, bouncy houses for the kids, and a petting zoo.The event draws large crowds each year and the proceeds are donated to surrounding communities, schools, sports leagues and charities, including My Father's Arrows orphanage.