88th Roundup ups the ante
Sep. 4—The 88th Lewiston Roundup kicks off Wednesday night with a crowd favorite and twice as much money offered to the winners.
For the first time, the Xtreme Bulls competition is offering $20,000 of added money toward the purse, said Roundup Director Willie Deibel, and the Lewiston event is now a last-chance qualifier for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Xtreme Bulls finale in Pendleton.
"That's huge," Deibel said. "We have 49 entries this year. In past years, we struggled a bit with our contestant numbers, but the committee's decision to double the amount of added money, and becoming a PRCA last-chance qualifier has been fantastic to enhance the event."
In addition to bulls, a full slate of rodeo events, including local barrel racers and young mutton busters, are on tap.
Some of the toughest and most talented men and women in the business will be racing against the clock every night, directors said. The Roundup is a tradition that features four performances, a downtown parade on Saturday and plenty of excitement for rodeo fans of all ages.
Grand marshal Larry Boyer, 86, will be honored for his years of dedication to the sport, and longtime commitment to farming and ranching in the Lapwai area. He's always attended the Lewiston Roundup and is excited to participate this year.
The 2022 royalty features Queen Niah Griffin, 20, daughter of Ryan and Brandi Griffin. She is a Troy High School graduate who attends the University of Idaho. Princess Loreal Ellenwood, 19, is daughter of Quincy and Janice Ellenwood and an enrolled Nez Perce Tribal member. The Lapwai High graduate now attends Lewis-Clark State College.
Announcer Will Rasmussen is returning as the man behind the microphone for his 18th stint at the Lewiston Roundup. In the arena, JJ Harrison, of Walla Walla, will be on hand to keep the audience entertained with his rodeo clown and barrel man antics.
Longtime bullfighters Kaleb Barrett and Nate Jestes will be joined by Clay Heger, an Asotin High School graduate. Heger is the son of Grace Heger, of Asotin, and the late Paul Heger.
Another local resident to keep your eye on is Rachelle Riggers, of Lewiston. She is one of the top barrel racers in the country, directors said, and recently made it to the finals in Cheyenne, Wyo.
From the live music to delicious food, the Roundup has something for everyone in the family, Deibel said.
"We're gearing up for a great week of rodeo. We ended 2021 on such a high with over 6,000 people on hand. We can't wait to continue the 'She's Wild' mantra in 2022."
Sandaine can be reached at kerris@lmtribune.com.
