Utah’s Own Rodeo gives kids a chance to participate with mutton bustin’

SALT LAKE CITY – Before they ever climb into the chutes, adrenaline fills their little bodies.

Part of it is excitement. Part of it is knowing they are about to ride a wild animal in front of thousands of fans. Just like the men who stand just a few feet away, the competitors want to be part of the spectacle and the thrill of rodeo. They want to hear the crowd scream. They want to feel the explosion underneath them as their mount explodes into the arena.

They also want the prize presented to the winning ride each night. Maybe after that, they’ll get some ice cream or maybe a Crumbl Cookie and possibly enjoy the carnival rides at the Utah State Fair. It’s part of a day in the life of mutton busters at Utah’s Own Rodeo. set for 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5; Saturday, Sept. 6; and Monday, Sept. 8, in the Days of ’47 Arena at the Utah State Fairpark in Salt Lake City. Tickets can be purchased at UtahStateFair.com/tickets.

“Mutton bustin’ is always a fan-favorite in rodeo, and ours is no exception,” said Jacee Lancaster, livestock director for the Utah State Fair and the production manager for the rodeo. “We have a really good rodeo, but I think the loudest ovations we get on any night are when the kids are riding sheep. Everybody is into it, and the kids will do the things kids do. Some will be pretty shy and quiet, but you’ll also get the ones who want to show off. That makes it really enjoyable.”

Sign-ups will take place at Tractor Supply stores along the Wasatch Front. There is no age requirement, but mutton busters must weigh less than 50 pounds in order to ride.

“We are very excited to partner with Tractor Supply to help us get our mutton busters signed up,” said Nicki Claeys, the fair’s deputy executive director and marketing director. “Having partners like Tractor Supply helps us in everything we do at the Utah State Fair, and we are excited to see how our relationship develops.

“Having the sign-ups this way allows anyone who is interested to sign their child up at any of the Tractor Supplies around Salt Lake City and beyond. I think it’s a partnership we can build on.”

Unlike other riding events that are marked on an eight-second limit, mutton bustin’ is more about who can ride the longest as well as the best. The Utah’s Own Rodeo formula is also unique with a “shotgun start,” meaning all chute gates open at the same time.

“I think that just adds to the excitement of the mutton bustin’,” Lancaster said. “It’s fun to see all these kids who get to compete right along side world champions and other rodeo stars, and everybody always looks forward to it.”