by Marilyn Munzert
The Attica Rodeo Grounds on Exchange Street in Attica, NY was the scene of 50 or more members of the New York State High School Rodeo Association gathered to compete in the New York State Finals on April 25 and 26. While the cowboys and cowgirls practiced their roping skills, saddled their horses, and checked their gear, waiting for the horseback riding NYSHSRA queen to carry the American flag around the arena signaling the beginning of the competition, vendors served lunch and the audience filled the bleachers.
This 2-day rodeo determined which competitors would attend the National Finals, based on how many points they earned in their chosen events. Last year the National Finals for the Junior Division was held in Iowa and the Senior Division in Wyoming. The cowboys and cowgirls received gifts, such as saddles, belt buckles and more for awards; no money was awarded in either division.
According to Linda Kruszka, a member of the adult board of the NYSHSRA, and mother of Frankie Bisceglie, her family became involved with the association after hearing about it from friends. Frankie rides in the Junior Division of the chute events in the High School Rodeo Association besides competing in 4H games classes and riding the trails for fun.
The cost to become a member of the HSRA is about $100 per year with a fee of $25 for each event entered. Middle school students, grades 6–8 and High school students, grades 9–12, are invited to join the HSRA. Contact Linda Kruszka at 716-560-0616 or e-mail: linda@mainstreetagency.com for more information.
