(Idaho Falls, ID) – While the War Bonnet Round Up may be Idaho’s Oldest Rodeo, this year it will feature one of the newest up-and-coming events in the rodeo world: Women’s Breakaway Roping.

The rodeo breaks ground this year by including the new event, which is poised to become the next big event to be added to the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). 

“This is a first for the War Bonnet, but anytime we can add an event that will bring more world caliber female athletes to our rodeo, we are going to jump at that chance,” said Idaho Falls Parks and Recreation Director PJ Holm.  “This is a really exciting, fast paced event that brings some of the top female talent from around the world, but it will also feature some great local talent.”

Women’s Breakaway is new to many rodeo circuits across the county and has mainly been a part of youth and amateur rodeo.  However, in 2016 it was introduced into Professional Rodeos in the Northwest and in 2018 it was added to RFD TV’s THE American and has since been growing at a rapid rate as more cowgirl’s join and compete in the rodeo sport.

"On behalf of the WPRA breakaway ropers, I want to extend a thank you to the War Bonnet Round Up for giving us this opportunity,” said CodiAnne Judkins, WPRA Roping Division Spokeswoman. “This is the first rodeo in the Wilderness Circuit to give breakaway ropers an opportunity to compete for equal money and prizes when compared to other standard rodeo events. We are looking forward to a long lasting partnership with the War Bonnet Round Up."

Breakaway roping is similar to men’s tie-down roping with a few minor differences.  In breakaway roping, the competitor does not dismount the horse.  A flag, tied to the end of the rope, is tied by a string to the saddle horn.  When the competitor ropes a calf, the rope is pulled tight, breaking the string and the rope flies free, signaling time. 

The Pendleton Round-Up featured Women’s Breakaway for the first time in 2017 and has been a featured event in the Columbia River Pro Rodeo Circuit.  However, this is the first time the event will be held at the War Bonnet Round Up.  As the sport gains in popularity, it is anticipated to be recognized and included as a PRCA event in the near future.

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Media Note:  For more information, to arrange an interview with rodeo staff or participants or for media credentials for Idaho’s Oldest Rodeo, The War Bonnet Round Up, contact City of Idaho Falls Public Information Office Bud Cranor at 208-612-8306.