LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Most youngsters have played at being cowboys and cowgirls as they were growing up. Being a rodeo performer is also a dream for many.  

When the 83rd annual Lake County Rodeo comes to Lakeport on Friday, July 13, and Saturday, July 14, that dream can come true for those who enter the mutton bustin' competition.  

CJS Ranch Supply in Middletown is the continuing sponsor for this very popular event.

The competition will take place each evening between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Contestants should check in at the rodeo office no later than 5:15 p.m. on the day of their ride.  

Boys and girls between the ages of 4 and 8 years old, who must weigh in on those dates at no more than 50 pounds, can have the thrill of their life seeing how long they can ride a sheep.

The entry fee is $10 per youth, not including rodeo admission.

Contestants must be dressed in long sleeved shirts and jeans, sturdy boots/shoes, with a properly sized helmet.

The winners will receive a silver buckle. Every rider will be given an authentic mutton bustin' tee shirt, courtesy of CJS Ranch Supply.

Winners' buckles sponsored by CJS Ranch Supply will be awarded Friday and Saturday night to the youngsters who have the longest ride of the night.

This event fills up fast and contestants – or their mom and dad – should get signed up early.

The applications are available at www.lakecountyrodeo.com , just click on “Rodeo Forms.”

The applications also will be available at CJS Ranch Supply in Middletown; Marie's Feed in Clearlake, Barreda's Lower Lake Feed, Rainbow Ag in Lakeport and the Lake County Chamber of Commerce at
Vista Point in Lakeport.  

For questions concerning the mutton bustin' competition, please contact Chair Angel Purdy at 707-228-6322.