On the heels of a very successful two-day, open Steer and Heifer show at Cattleman Park arena, the Cattlemen are now preparing for the big “Pike County Cattlemen Rodeo and Concert” on Aug. 23 and 24 at Cattleman Park.

Ed Whatley, Pike County Cattleman executive director, said the success of the steer and heifer show will be an impetus for the rodeo and concert.

“Young people from across Alabama and Georgia participated in the steer and heifer show,” Whatley said. “We had a really strong group of calves to go on and compete for state championships in both states. The Pike County Cattlemen are always encouraged to see young people involved in the cattle industry. They are the future of the cattle industry.”

Pike County is one of the largest Cattlemen’s associations in the state and one of the most active.

“And, we have really stepped it up a notch or two this year,” Whatley said.

Perhaps, that extra notch is the Pike County Cattlemen Rodeo and Concert.

“The rodeo will be an official Professional Cowboy Association rodeo,” Whatley said. “The rodeo will feature a new stock contractor, Bar W Rodeo Company out of Haysville, N.C. Bar W has a reputation for really great bucking stock.”

The rodeo announcer will be on horseback and that adds a new wrinkle to the rodeo.

“We’ll also have an electronic scoreboard so rodeo fans can easily keep up with the contestants scores and times,” Whatley said. “And, we also have a really great clown act.

Friday night will be family night at the rodeo and the Cattlemen have added mutton bustin’ to the children’s activities, along with the calf scramble, pony rides and a mechanical bull.”

After the Friday night rodeo, the “Down Home Boys,” will be in concert. So those who enjoy “down home” gospel and country music will want to stay around for that, Whatley said.

“Saturday night is a really big night at Cattleman Park,” Whatley said. “Of course, the rodeo is always a big and exciting event but, when all the chutes are closed, Jamey Johnson will be in concert in the arena. Jamie is an accomplished songwriter and performer. His hits include ‘The Dollar’ and ‘In Color.’ He has written for George Strait and co-wrote the hit ‘Honky Tonk Ba Donak Donk.’

“Jamie grew up in Pike and Montgomery counties and we are so excited to have him back in Pike County with the Pike County Cattlemen.”

Whatley said he understands August is a busy time with summer coming to a close and schools back in session, but he hope everyone will plan to be in town for the 20th annual rodeo.

“We appreciate the great support of the Pike County people over the years and look forward to making this rodeo the best ever,” Whatley said.