Wildest Roughstock Rodeo streamlines, keeps wild side

Cape's Wildest Roughstock Rodeo will have fewer events, but the event's subtle name change -- adding roughstock -- will likely allow it to live up to its wild billing.

According to co-director Garrett Sparkman, the sixth annual rodeo has scaled back from nine competitive events to only three -- barrel racing, bronc riding and bull riding.

"They knocked out a couple events and just stuck totally to roughstock," Sparkman said.

The rodeo is set for tonight and Saturday at the Arena Park grandstand in Cape Girardeau.

The event will follow the same schedule both nights. Festivities will begin at 6 p.m. with a mutton bustin' event for children. Competition follows at 7. A dance will conclude each night's activities at the Future Farmers of America building in Arena Park.

Sparkman, who is co-directing the event with his brother, Travis Keller, expects around 40 contestants from across Southeast Missouri and parts of Illinois. He said the reduction of events -- several roping competitions were eliminated -- has not affected the amount of entries.

"We've actually had a better turnout so far this year," he said. "I know every night is full."

The rodeo will continue its tradition of donating all proceeds, which go to Shriners Hospital for Children in St. Louis this year.

"We've done pretty good in the past," Sparkman said, "but we've never raised as much as we've hoped to. Hopefully, this year will be different. Shriners Hospital's got a good program up there."

Price of admission is free for children 12 and under and $8 for adults.