Vernal Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo seeks sponsorship for Father's Day weekend event

During the Uintah County Commission meeting on April 1, 2025, the president of Vernal's Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo presented a compelling case for continued county sponsorship of the upcoming event, scheduled for Father's Day weekend in June. The rodeo, which has become a significant attraction in the region, showcased impressive statistics from the previous year, including participation from 588 professional contestants, despite a slight decline from the previous year.

The rodeo's success was highlighted by strong spectator attendance, with nearly selling out on multiple nights and drawing visitors from both the United States and Europe. The president emphasized the importance of local talent, noting that several contestants from the Uintah Basin excelled at the National Finals Rodeo, bringing recognition to the area.

Looking ahead, the rodeo plans to enhance its offerings with returning acts such as the Westernaires, a renowned equestrian group, and John Payne, a celebrated specialty act. The event will also feature top-tier entertainment, including a well-known rodeo clown and bullfighters, ensuring a high-quality experience for attendees.

A key point of discussion was the need to increase the rodeo's prize money by approximately $38,000 to maintain its status as a televised event within the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) playoff series. This adjustment is crucial for the rodeo to remain competitive, especially as other cities are raising their prize offerings. The president noted that while Vernal's rodeo has historically been one of the largest in Utah, the landscape has changed significantly over the past 15 years, necessitating this increase to attract more contestants and maintain relevance.

The meeting underscored the rodeo's role not only as a local tradition but also as a vital economic driver for Uintah County, drawing visitors and fostering community pride. As the commission considers the sponsorship request, the implications of their support could resonate throughout the region, impacting both the cultural landscape and local economy.