The interstates and two-lane roads that link Kansas communities are hoppin’ this week as the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association contestants make their way to rodeo hot spots like Hill City, Phillipsburg, Abilene and Dodge City.

Big money is available, and the proximity of those towns to one another makes it nice for cowboys and cowgirls who travel hundreds of miles in a stretch just to get from one playground to another.

Throw in the burg of Sidney, Iowa, and this is an especially spicy week for those hoping to qualify for the Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo, where the top contestants from the Kansas-Nebraska-Oklahoma region will compete in October.

Here’s a toast to much success and safe travels across the Sunflower State this week. You all deserve it.