Memorial rodeo makes return

In 2020, Stephens County resident Rowdy Swanson was bull riding in a Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA) event in Mineral Wells, Texas when tragedy struck.

Swanson, an Empire High School graduate, was tossed by the bull he was riding and the bull landed on his abdomen.

“The doctors said he was almost instantly killed,” said Jarrell Swanson, Rowdy’s father.

Making sure there would be good to come out of the tragic situation, the Swanson family set up an endowment at Oklahoma State University, where Rowdy was a member of the rodeo team.

Approximately $70,000 has been raised for the endowment.

“(The rodeo) is our only fundraiser,” Jarrell Swanson said. “It helps other kids at OSU get an education.”

There will be more than just bullriding at the third annual Rowdy Swanson Bull Riding Rodeo this Saturday beginning at 6 p.m. There will be a calf scramble for boys and girls. The winners will receive a new bicycle. There will also be a silent auction, concessions, vendors and other things available.

A highlight of the evening will be double amputee Dana Bowman, a former Golden Knight, who will be parachuting in with the flag.

Bowman collided with a fellow Golden Knight during training, leading to his teammates death and his double amputation. Bowman travels around the country for his Halo for Freedom foundation and Wounded Warriors. He doesn’t get paid for the events at which he parachutes.

In 2021, they were able to give a $1,250 scholarship and in 2022, they were able to give out a $3,000 scholarship and a $1,250 scholarship.

Tickets are available at Crutcher’s Western store in Duncan.