Rodeo goes pro, queen extends

COLFAX – The Palouse Empire Rodeo Association (PERA) received word earlier this month that it has been approved to host PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association) events.

“It’s huge,” said Kay Riebold, PERA treasurer.

The local association had been with ProWest, which is an amateur association. PRCA is professional level, with finals held in Las Vegas, Nev. The new affiliation is expected to bring higher quality cowboys and stock to the rodeo hosted during the Palouse Empire Fair.

According to Riebold, the rodeo association tried to join PRCA about 30 years ago, but was vetoed by Lewiston. A...