Rawhide rodeo action returns to Timmermans Ranch

Look for Rawhide Rodeo Tour bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, pole bending, and roping at the annual Norfolk Pro Rodeo, July 18-20, at Timmermans Ranch, 2454 Nixon Road. 

Leah Bauer

Advocate Correspondent

The Norfolk Pro Rodeo is back for another year! On July 18, 19, and 20, you can expect a fun-filled weekend of rodeo and country fun.

This event has quickly become one of the can’t miss events of the summer here in Norfolk County. Remember the dates and be sure to put them in your calendar so you don’t miss out on this fun annual event at 2454 Nixon Road.

We were lucky enough to speak to Krista Timmermans from Timmermans Ranch, the organizer and owner of the Norfolk Pro Rodeo venue, to find out more information on the event, its origins, and what attendees can expect this year.

The Norfolk Pro Rodeo began eight years ago when Mike and Krista Timmermans moved to Norfolk County from the London area.

“We didn’t really know anyone here so we figured what better way to get to know the whole community than to invite everyone over,” said Krista.

Since then, it is safe to say that the Timmermans have become well acquainted with the community. They use the rodeo to showcase the talent of local 4-H groups, as well as local businesses, not to mention the fact that they provide the community with a fun-filled weekend every summer.

Planning for the following year's rodeo starts right after the gates close on Sunday evening. Krista attributes this diligent planning and preparation to wanting to build upon the rodeo every year, constantly improving. The Timmermans' dedication to the rodeo is founded in their wish to provide something that gathers the community and keeps the important cultural heritage of the rodeo alive in an area with a strong equestrian and agricultural background.

The event is a part of the Rawhide Rodeo Tour, where competitors earn points at every rodeo they attend in an attempt to earn enough points to make it to the International Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma in January. The Rawhide Pro Rodeo is a professional tour, sanctioned by the International Pro Rodeo Association.

They are bringing a weekend of action-packed sport to Norfolk County for three performances: Friday, July 18 at 7 p.m., Saturday, July 19 at 4 p.m., and Sunday, July 20 at 2 p.m.

Over the course of the weekend, spectators can expect an unforgettable rodeo show, featuring bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, pole bending, and roping. The event will also include live music, food and merchandise vendors, free kids rodeo and inflatables, and a bar featuring local specialties! The local 4-H clubs also bring a farm animal education area for people to learn all about our local 4-H clubs and the animals they care for.

This year the Rodeo is offering live music both Friday and Saturday nights! Friday night the doors open at 5 p.m., and kick off the weekend with a 7 p.m. rodeo performance, followed by a concert featuring Andrew Hyatt. Saturday, gates open at 1 p.m., with the main rodeo performance at 4 p.m., followed by a Gord Bamford concert. The concert is included in your day pass! Concert-only tickets can also be purchased at the door (admission after 6 pm).

Sunday is the perfect day to bring the family – gates open at 11 a.m., with the main rodeo performance at 2 p.m., and lots of kid’s activities happening throughout the day. Besides the rodeo competitions, there is live music and entertainment all weekend long, lots of food and merchandise vendors, a bar, and a kid’s zone. A full weekend schedule and vendor list is on their website. There’s something for everyone!

Early bird tickets are available until July 4. Tickets are available online - www.NorfolkRodeo.com. Tickets will be available at the door, if not sold out. Plenty of excitement for the entire family. For more information, visit their website www.NorfolkRodeo.com or find “Norfolk Pro Rodeo” on Facebook and Instagram.