58th annual UNL Rodeo is April 15-16

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Rodeo Association will host the 58th annual UNL Rodeo April 15-16 at the Lancaster Event Center, 4100 N. 84th St.

UNRA is primarily run by students, who organize and raise funds for the event. Members have many responsibilities beyond those of a typical student. Students must purchase fuel, stock and feed; hire safety professionals; and rent the event space. Members form committees such as hospitality, promotion, education and production to ensure every detail is handled.

“Our students work extremely hard to put this event together and it’s fun to see their hard work pay off,” said UNRA adviser Jamie Bauman.

On April 13, Gov. Pete Ricketts will proclaim it Rodeo Week in Nebraska. On the evening of April 14, Raising Canes will host a fundraiser with a portion of all proceeds going to UNRA.

Rodeo tickets start at $10 and are available at http://www.lancastereventcenter.org. General admission tickets are also available at all Fort Western Stores. College students can purchase tickets for $5 at the door.

Kids Day will be from 9 a.m. to noon April 16. Rodeo demonstrations and live animals will highlight the free activities. Children 12 and under will receive free admission to the 1 p.m. performance.

UNRA is a member of the Great Plains Region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association. About 250 contestants from six states compete in 10 rodeos throughout the year for a chance to qualify for the College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming. UNL’s rodeo team consists of 25 members from four states and 10 majors.

The UNL Rodeo takes place each year during CASNR Week, a celebration of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. CASNR Week is solely planned, organized and executed by students.