COVID-19 does not stop Sumner tradition

SUMNER - The Sumner Rodeo has become a tradition for many locals and even some from far away over the 4th of July.

However, the Sumner 4th of July Celebration did not quite look the same this year due to COVID-19. Sumner Commercial Club President Kristen Triplett said, “Due to the current pandemic the celebration looks different this year. Unfortunately parades, carnivals and street dances are restricted, but there are many things that are not like family, fun and freedom.”

The Sumner Saddle Club was still able to have their two rodeo performances July 3rd at 7 p.m. and July 4th at 1:30 p.m. That is a tradition that many like to attend, especially the afternoon of the 4th. There was a good crowd that showed up to watch the competition from local contestants as well as those from other parts of the state and other states. It was a great 4th of July afternoon for rodeo.

I have said it before, but I will say it again; it is great seeing people with out masks and getting on with their lives and having fun.

For more photos of the Sumner Rodeo see the Custer County Chief website at wwwcustercountychief.com.

Tim Conover Travis Lymber (HD) of Broken Bow and Ira Spanel (HL) of Broken Bow, pictured above, competed in Team Roping at the Sumner Rodeo the afternoon of July 4th but had a little bad luck as they ended up with no time.

Tim Conover Rusty Kluender of Broken Bow, pictured above, competed in Calf Roping Saturday afternoon in Sumner but ended up with a no time.

Tim Conover Cable Wareham of Kansas, pictured above, gets upended in Bull Riding before eight seconds is up at the Sumner Rodeo July 4th.

Tim Conover Jymmie Johnson of Burwell, pictured above, competed in Barrel Racing at Sumner the afternoon of July 4th and ended up with a time of 17.50.

Tim Conover Riggin Heikel of Pleasanton, pictured above, competed in Calf roping at the Sumner Rodeo the afternoon of July 4th as he dismounts his horse to tie the calf after roping it.