Scarce crowd; rodeo continues today

EDITOR’S NOTE: Opp Mayor John Bartholomew notified The Star-News Saturday morning that Friday armbands will be honored on Saturday.

The crowd was scarce last night at the Opp Rattlesnake Rodeo as the rain poured.

Despite pleas from Facebook followers, rodeo officials said there would be no refunds and no rain checks for pre-sold tickets. Sammy Kershaw took the stage a bit late, but those who braved the weather said they were faithful to their artists.

Bonnie Austin said she came to see John Anderson.

“They will have to bring out the Jaws of Life to get me out,” she said.

Taylor Steele said she had visitors coming from Orlando.

“I couldn’t leave them hanging coming all this way,” he said.

Kenneth and Debra Kirkland were there, as well.

“My wife’s never been,” he said. “We’re here for all the artists tonight.”

Clarissa Holloway said she came because she loves it.

“I come every year,” she said.

Doug Mills traveled from Chipley, Fla., and said he made the trek for the singers.

Shane Farris said, “Aaron Tippin that simple.”

The rodeo will continue this morning, and the weather forecast should be much nicer.

Saturday’s events kick off with a 5K run/walk at Opp High School.

Registration will be from 7 a.m. until 8:30 a.m., and the race starts at 9 a.m.

Gates open at Channell-Lee Stadium at 8 a.m.

A welcome will be at 9 a.m., and local entertainment kicks off at 10 a.m.

Snake races will be at 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.

Opening ceremonies will be at noon.

Andalusia native Christian Wossilek will perform at 2:30 p.m.

The world championship buck-dancing contest will be at 3 p.m., and Bobby Finedore will play harmonica.

The famous greasy pole climb contest will be at 4 p.m.

A Christian contest will begin at 6 p.m., with Tim Timmons.

Ellie Holcomb will perform at 7 p.m., and Chris Tomlin will perform at 8 p.m.