Thousands of spectators gathered at the Roy Pioneer Rodeo grounds this past weekend, immersing themselves in the heart-pounding action of the 62nd annual Roy Pioneer Rodeo. Cowboys and cowgirls showcased their skills in a series of electrifying events, drawing a standing-room-only crowd to the arena on Higgins Greig Road in Roy.
The June 4th schedule was packed with classic rodeo competitions, including the raw power of bareback riding and saddle bronc riding, the precision of tie-down roping and team roping, and the speed of barrel racing. Adding to the excitement were events like novice bronc riding, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, and the unique spectacle of military bull riding and cow milking.
Karen Briskey, the dedicated secretary of the Roy Pioneer Rodeo Association, has been a part of the Roy Rodeo family since childhood. With a decade of involvement in the association, her enthusiasm for the event is infectious.
“We are completely full today with participants,” Briskey shared with the Nisqually Valley News on June 4th. “The energy is fantastic. Ever since we reopened after COVID, every single rodeo has been packed. People are genuinely excited to be here and enjoy the rodeo spirit.”
Briskey emphasized the strong sense of community that defines the Roy Rodeo. “It’s like one big family getting together,” she said. “That camaraderie is what I cherish most. We get to experience this twice a year, and our September show is already on the horizon.”
Troy Erb, a competitor in tie-down roping and cow milking, embodies the deep family ties woven into the fabric of the Roy Pioneer Rodeo. His family’s commitment to the rodeo spans nearly four decades. For Erb, participating and contributing to the event is a meaningful way to honor his family legacy.
“The Erb, Sleeman, and Erickson families have been instrumental in running this rodeo for generations,” Erb explained before his competitions. “Family is paramount. Rodeo itself is a tight-knit family, and wherever you go, you’re bound to see familiar faces and family friends.”
Having grown up around the Roy Rodeo, Erb has witnessed its evolution firsthand. He noted the significant improvements to the rodeo grounds over the years, including concrete additions to the concession stand, updated fencing, and consistent annual maintenance.
“The upgrades we’ve made are remarkable,” Erb commented. “I’ve been involved in painting and building here since I was a kid. Our family has been deeply invested in this rodeo for a long time.”
Erb underscored the Roy Pioneer Rodeo’s vital role as a traditional event that consistently gives back to the community and surrounding areas. “This rodeo is a major community event for the entire town,” Erb stated. “For many, this rodeo contributes significantly to their livelihood, and it’s a cornerstone for the town’s vitality.”
Shawna Painter, another long-time Roy resident, echoed the sentiment about the Roy Pioneer Rodeo’s special place in the community. Having moved to Roy in 1972 and become involved with the rodeo in the 1980s, the event has become a family affair for her as well.
“I’ve been coming out here for years. My sons are all involved in rodeos, and two of them are working here with me today,” Painter shared on June 4th. “The excitement and the friendships drew me to the rodeo. The people are fantastic – always good for a chat and a laugh.”
Painter emphasized the annual excitement the Roy Rodeo injects into Roy and neighboring communities. She described it as a “great place to be” where everyone, participants and spectators alike, enjoys themselves.
Mark your calendars for the next Roy Pioneer Rodeo action on September 3rd and 4th. Don’t miss the chance to experience this beloved community tradition.
