Burke Stampede Rodeo to feature longhorn cattle drive

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BURKE — Longhorn cattle sightings are usually limited to behind fences along the highway or in corrals at county fairs.

This week, however, residents and visitors have the chance to see longhorns driven from just south of Dixon to Dallas, through Gregory and into Burke in conjunction with the 22nd annual Burke Stampede Rodeo.

The rodeo begins Friday, but the cattle drive begins today. The group broke camp early this morning from the Steve McCance Ranch, which is a half-mile south of Highway 44 and two miles west of Dixon.

The group should arrive at Gregory by 12 p.m. Thursday and at Burke by 4:30 p.m.

The old fashioned cattle drive will kick off the Burke Stampede Rodeo schedule, which has several events through the weekend.

Thursday includes the Chuckwagon Cook-Off at 6:30 p.m. and the Stampede Idol contest. The idol winner will not only claim prize money, but have the honor of performing each evening of the rodeo.

Rodeo performances will begin each at 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday at the Stampede arena. The One Arm Bandit and Company, headed by Lynn Payne from Shidler, Okla., includes two large 1-ton bison named Elmer and Elvis in his act, which has been named the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Specialty Act of the Year 11 times.

Justin Rumford, of Ponca City, Okla., will also perform original acts and quick wit each evening, including motorcycle jumps, crocodile hunting and gorilla taming. Rumford will also perform in the barrel during the bull riding.

Friday night is family night, which includes mutton bustin’ for the kids.

Nashville recording artist Marci Mitchell will perform at the rodeo dances Friday and Saturday evening. The dances are free with rodeo admission.

The rodeo will also feature Cowboy Breakfast Saturday and Sunday mornings.

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