As one of Limestone County’s premiere events, the annual Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo draws thousands of spectators to the Sheriff’s Rodeo Arena on Alabama 99 each May.

The arena isn’t a one-trick pony, however, as the facility is used for a number of events. Sheriff Mike Blakely on Wednesday said 2017 is shaping up to be another busy year.

The popularity of the facility recently prompted the installation of a new set of aluminum bleachers on the arena’s west side. Sheriff Mike Blakely said the new seating cost $150,000, but he believes it was a worthwhile investment.

“Proceeds from the rodeo will help us offset the cost of the upgrades, and we are looking for sponsors to help with funding as well,” he said.

The new seating replaced older wooden bleachers that weren’t conducive to long periods of sitting or for any spectators who needed to use the restroom or hit the concession stand. There were no walkways, so it left many patrons stuck in one spot unless they wanted to step over or around people in front of them.

He would like to eventually replace the remaining wooden bleachers with new aluminum ones.

“It was something we’ve been needing to do,” Blakely said. “Sometimes you’ve got to spend money to make sure the public can continue to use it.”

In addition to the rodeo, numerous other community events are held each year, including day camps for at-risk children, livestock judging for 4-H and Future Farmers of America, horse shows, a youth rodeo and — more recently — a motor cross event. Blakely said those events would be returning to the arena again this year, in addition to the possibility of some other events. Just this week, a group expressed an interest in having barrel racing competitions at the arena.

“We’re looking at more events this year than we’ve had in a long time,” the sheriff said.

In addition to the public events, the arena features a training facility used by officers from across the state. This week, law enforcement officials have been at the arena for National Crime Information Center (NCIC) training.

Blakely said 1 acre of land that borders the arena grounds was recently purchased and will be turned into a firing range where deputies can train and qualify. He said members of the public who sign up for firearms safety classes offered by the Sheriff’s Office would also use the range as part of the course.

Looking ahead

The 2017 Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo will be the 35th annual rodeo hosted by Sheriff Blakely. It will be held Friday, May 19 and Saturday, May 20. As a new feature this year, advance rodeo tickets can be purchased online beginning March 1 at www.limestonesheriff.com or on the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

Advance tickets can also be purchased at Preston’s Western Wear or the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office in Athens.

Anyone interested in sponsoring rodeo events can contact Paul Cain or Sheriff Blakely at 256-232-0111. The Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo is a registered nonprofit organization.