Crowd estimated at 15K

Published 12:28 am Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Reluctant Saints opened up on Saturday night for Gretchen Wilson.

In rain or shine, the show must go on – that was the theme for Rattlesnake Rodeo organizers this weekend.

Opp Mayor H.D. Edgar said at one point Friday the stadium was evacuated due to a tornado warning for Covington County.

Around 5:45 p.m., the National Weather Service issued a tornado warning that was headed toward Horn Hill, Opp and Onycha.

“The storm came, and we had to evacuate the stadium,” Edgar said. “We had about 3,000 who came on Friday were able to enjoy the concert. The rain stopped in time for the main attraction – Travis Tritt. We did have rain insurance, so that will help.”

On Saturday morning, rain poured, but it let up in time for the Gretchen Wilson concert.

“We estimate about 15,000 total for the weekend,” he said. “It’s really hard to tell, though. In a few weeks, we’ll get a handle on it.”

Edgar said that despite the weather, the weekend was enjoyable.

“We had a great crowd and a good weekend,” he said. “We appreciate everyone coming out to the event.”