Rodeo Tradition Kicks Off Thomas County Fair Week with High-Flying Action

The Thomas County Fair got off to a thrilling start last week as the Kansas Professional Rodeo Association (KPRA) rodeo took center stage on Monday, July 21, and Tuesday, July 22. Drawing competitors from across the region and an enthusiastic local crowd, the two-night rodeo reaffirmed its place as one of the most anticipated traditions of Fair Week in Colby.

The stands at the Thomas County Fairgrounds were filled both nights as spectators gathered to witness regional rodeo talent across a full slate of events including Steer Wrestling, Ladies Breakaway, Saddle Bronc Riding, Tie Down Roping, Mixed Team Roping, Team Roping, Ladies Barrel Racing, and the ever-popular Bull Riding competition.

While the KPRA circuit regularly brings in pro riders from across the Midwest and Mountain West—including athletes from Nebraska, Colorado, Idaho, and Oklahoma—it was the hometown heroes that brought the biggest roar from the crowd.

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Four competitors from Colby proudly represented the community among the professional ranks:

• Blair Jones competed in Steer Wrestling, Jake Anderson took on the Saddle Broncs, and Braiden Lynn and Shiloh Warmbrodt both battled the bulls in the Bull Riding events.

The energy inside the arena surged when Lynn and Warmbrodt entered the chute on Tuesday night. Although the bulls proved to be as rank as ever, the crowd rallied behind the local cowboys, celebrating every second they stayed on with thunderous cheers.

Another highlight of the rodeo was a junior exhibition featuring youth barrel racers from Thomas County. These young ladies, some as young as 10, wowed the crowd with their poise, speed, and control around the barrels. While the event was officially non-competitive, the performance gave the next generation of rodeo talent a well-earned spotlight and valuable experience in front of a large audience.

“This was such a great chance for our youth riders to build confidence and be part of something big,” said a local organizer. “They really held their own out there.”

The KPRA rodeo events not only entertained but also served as a kickstart to a week full of Thomas County Fair activities, from livestock shows and exhibits to contests and concerts.

With two exciting nights of rodeo in the books and the fair just getting underway, this year’s event is already shaping up to be a memorable one.