HEMPSTEAD, Texas – When the right ingredients are packaged correctly, big things happen.
That’s been the case for the Waller County Fair and Rodeo since it teamed with Dallas-based stock contractor Pete Carr to produce its annual ProRodeo. It’s a formula that will continue; the Waller County Fair Board has voted to extend its contract with Pete Carr Pro Rodeo for four more years.
“We’ve had great partnership with Pete Carr over the last 10 years,” said Paul Shollar, the board’s vice president. “The organization is extremely excited to continue to see what’s to come with our great rodeo.”
The popularity of Hempstead’s rodeo has continued to blossom over the years. Much of that has to do with how local organizers plan their events through the nine-day exposition. The fair board has increased its rodeo’s purse over the years and has always brought in top-flight contract personnel.
Whether it’s award-winning entertainers like John Harrison or Justin Rumford or the world-class animal athletes Carr brings to town, the rodeo has been a major attraction at the fairgrounds. This year’s rodeo – as well as other Western-sports events – took place under the newly covered arena with revamped bleachers and specialized suites for major contributors.
Carr is a 14-time nominee for PRCA Stock Contractor of the Year. This year, 20 Carr animals have been selected to buck at the National Finals Rodeo, which begins Dec. 7. That includes Bayou Bengal, which was named the PRCA Bull of the Year, the sixth animal from the company to have won a world championship.
“Year after year, it seems our rodeo tops the previous year’s expectations, from attendance to contestants,” said Clint Sciba, president of the Waller County Fair and Rodeo. “Pete’s production and rodeo stock, paired with our newly covered arena and cowboy/cowgirl hospitality building, has helped build the board’s support and the community’s support.
“We can’t wait for the next four years of rodeo in Waller County.”
The 2024 rodeo will take place Thursday, Oct. 3-Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Waller County Fairgrounds in Hempstead.