"Rodeo of the Year' honors for Sisters

Sisters Rodeo Association has been recognized as the 2011 Columbia River Circuit Rodeo of the Year. The announcement was made at the Circuit Finals Rodeo in Redmond in November.

This is the second time Sisters Rodeo has received this honor, in a circuit association that includes PRCA rodeos in Oregon, California, Washington and Idaho.

"Sisters does so much for the circuit," said Michael Reger, a circuit board member, citing above-average involvement with the circuit finals and donation of a prize-winning saddle. "Besides, they do a great rodeo with an ever-increasing pot."

Voting for the award is made by the Columbia River Circuit Board of Directors and by the boards of the professional cowboy and cowgirl associations. Sisters was noted as a rodeo that communicates well with its contract personnel, contestants, judges and PRCA, which makes it easier for those professionals to function during the rodeo.

The rodeo was also complimented for its fast-paced action and non-stop entertainment during its performances.

Sisters Rodeo President G.J. Miller stated, "As a result of the hard work of our board and members, we have received The Columbia River Circuit Large Rodeo of the Year Award for the second time. We are very proud that our efforts have given us a reputation for presenting a high-quality rodeo."

A second award was given to Sisters Rodeo by the Women's Professional Rodeo Association as the Most Improved Rodeo. This award was presented at both the Circuit Finals Rodeo and again at National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas in December, when Sisters won Most Improved at the national level.

Barrel racers of the WPRA have been very pleased with the quality of the arena surface in Sisters since the association did a major remodel of the ground two years ago. This gives the horses better grip for the lightening-speed spins they must make in barrel racing competition.

"The most-improved award from the Womens' Professional Rodeo Association is a real pat on the back for us. To have the appreciation of the barrel racing community, where their concern for their horses is understandably high priority, is something we have sought to accomplish for a long time."

The Sisters PRCA Rodeo will feature five performances, June 6-10. For ticket information, call 541-549-0121 or 800-827-7522 or visit www.sistersrodeo.com.