Val Marie is getting ready to kick up some dust today and tomorrow as its annual rodeo returns. 

The 58th Annual Indoor Bob Larson Memorial Rodeo is set to kick off today, starting two days of roping, riding, and rodeo marryment. 

Chairman for the Val Marie Rodeo Committee, Dan Coupe, is all geared up for another great rodeo, held once again in memory of a larger-than-life community member. 

"Bob Larson was a local rancher and cattleman," shared Coupe. "He was also a stock contractor from the area. He was really instrumental in southwest Saskatchewan in getting kids started in rodeo."

Larson was famed for his livestock, making sure to provide animals for various rodeos and organizations. He worked closely with the Saskatchewan High School Rodeo Association, bringing them quality livestock and providing opportunities for younger cowboys and cowgirls to thrive in the sport. 

Larson himself was a former rodeo competitor and had a deep understanding of what it takes to put on a good show, and why so many risk it all for the roar of the crowd. 

"[Larson] just loved rodeo and was really good for the sport of rodeo, and the southwest," said Coupe. "So that's why we named it after him after he passed."

This weekend is all set up and is officially sanctioned under the Canadian Cowboys Association, with a full list of events. Saturday's Intermission will feature a Rodeo Queen Competition, and that night will have a cabaret, with live music by Bakersfield. Admission for the cabaret is $10. 

Doors open at 7 p.m. today at the Val Marie rink, and again at the same time tomorrow. Adults pay $10, 12 and under are $7, while pre-school and younger are free. 

In response to Canada's Online News Act and Meta (Facebook and Instagram) removing access to local news from their platforms, Swift Current Online encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the Swift Current Online app.