More than 400 contestants participated in last weekend's Sheriff's Rodeo.

It was one of the biggest Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeos in the 28-year history of the event.

According to Sheriff Mike Blakely, 440 contestants competed for prizes.

This year’s event drew some of what Blakely called the “superstars” of the rodeo circuit, among which were Fred Whitfield, winner of eight world roping titles; Tyler Magnus and Chad Masters, holder of one world title.

The large number of competitors necessitated a “slack” on Thursday in which riders and ropers competed, but lacked all the bells and whistles of Saturday night’s main event.

Taking home buckles were:

• Bareback — Raymond Cooper of Center Ridge, Ark.

• Saddle bronc — Tyler West of Senora, Kan.

• Calf roping — Justin Thigpen of Waycross, Ga.

• Breakaway roping — Kallen Roller of Beebe, Ark.

• Steer wrestling — Casey Harmon of Walnut, Miss.

• Barrel racing — Terri Alexander of Carrollton, Ga.

• Bull riding — Tie between Jeremiah Melson of Savannah, Tenn., and Cody Brewer of Cookeville, Tenn.

• Team roping — Chris Chandler of Lebanon, Tenn., and Josh Clayton of Buchanan, Tenn.

Throughout the almost three decades of this annual event, rodeo proceeds have gone to purchase 38 fully equipped patrol cars, defray helicopter expenses, buy bullet-proof vests for reserves, and paid for training for all departmental divisions.

Tourism officials say the rodeo is one of the top tourism events in Alabama and the largest outdoor rodeo east of the Mississippi River.

See Wednesday’s News Courier for results and photos of the Rodeo Queen Contest.