“There are some really good riders,” said fisheries and wildlife senior Justin Miller, president of Rodeo Club. “Some of the livestock we’re using went to the national finals rodeo back in January. There will be some really good bulls and bucking horses.”

Seven MSU students from the club competed in at least one of the three shows during the weekend. Among them were senior Adam Peters and junior Max Pfund, both animal science majors who competed in the bull riding competition.

“It’s a thrill,” Pfund said. “I like the people and you get to travel a lot. It’s fun.”

Along with bull riding, there were six other events, including team roping, barrel racing, saddle bronc and bareback riding, calf roping and steer wrestling. Winners in each category received a rodeo club jacket and a trophy wheel.

Animal science freshman K.C. Main, who competed in the barrel racing, said rodeo is not only an interest to her, but a family tradition.

“My mom and dad were in Rodeo Club, and my sister was in Rodeo Club, so I joined,” Main said.

Rodeo Club helps promote and teach rodeo to any student who is willing to learn. Some of the contestants at last weekend’s event, including Main, were in their first year of competition.

“Some students come with experience, but a lot of kids that come to Rodeo Club don’t have any rodeo experience. They just like the sport,” said Brian Nielsen, professor of equine exercise physiology and Rodeo Club adviser. “They learn the skills here and compete.”