International Finals Youth Rodeo – the starting point for rodeo legends

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International Finals Youth Rodeo

If you happen to live in or around Shawnee, Oklahoma, you don’t want to miss the International Finals Youth Rodeo (IFYR). Over 1,000 young athletes from around the world participate in the IFYR every July. They compete for more than $250,000 in prize money. The rodeo is not only a great experience for these young athletes but is also known as a starting point for rodeo legends. Participants must be ninth-grade graduates and under the age of 19. They need to submit an application, a medical release, and a copy of their birth certificate to compete. An International Pro Rodeo Association (IPRA) permit or IPRA youth card is also required. And of course, parents’ permission is mandatory.

What to expect at IFYR

IFYR is held in three arenas that run simultaneously. The cowgirl events include barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping, team roping, and goat tying. Events for the cowboys include team roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding, saddle bronc riding and bareback riding. There are two long go-rounds and a short go. Everyone competes in each of the long go-rounds. The top 15 contestant averages from each event, compete in the championship round short go. Prizes include money, scholarships, nightly jackpots, championship saddles, buckles and more. And the lucky athletes that win the All-Around Cowboy and Cowgirl titles will be provided championship trailers to use for one full year.

The Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center

The IFYR events are held in three of the large outdoor arenas at the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center. It is located in Shawnee, just east of Oklahoma City. When you are ready to take a break from the heat, you can spend time strolling through the air-conditioned Tin Star Market. This is where you will find an awesome collection of western clothing, unique jewelry, boots, hats, tack, artwork, and more. You can also find anything and everything for your horse. The market is open every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. And of course, there will be food, music, and dancing at night from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

In conclusion

IFYR is not only where you can see youth from all over the world showcase their rodeo skills, but it is also an excellent place to meet new friends, visit with old ones and make memories. There is no limit to the fun you will have. That is why Curicyn sponsors a team every year. So, while you are at the arenas be sure to cheer on Team Curicyn! You may also want to check out our infographic Must have wound care products for the stable.

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References

City of Shawnee, Oklahoma. (no date). Shawnee, Oklahoma. Visitors’ Guide. Retrieved from http://www.shawneeok.org

Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center Shawnee Oklahoma. (no date). The Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center is the home of the IFYR. International Finals Youth Rodeo. Retrieved from https://www.shawneeexpo.org/ifyr–about-the-expo.html

Shawnee IFYR. (no date). The IFYR. Welcome to the International Finals Youth Rodeo! Retrieved from https://www.ifyr.com.