It's Time To 'Yee-Haw' For The Hamel Rodeo

HAMEL, Minn. (WCCO) – If you're in Hamel this weekend, you're likely to hear a lot of "yee-hawin." It's time to put on your cowboy boots and hat and head out to the Hamel Rodeo.

The Hamel Rodeo, which is in its 33rd year, is the largest rodeo in Minnesota with more than 450 cowboys and cowgirls competing.

One of the more fun events is a miniature horse called "Lickety Split."..He's not just a ladies man, but a miniature horse that does tricks. For our cameras he laid down and stood on a pedestal.

"It takes about two years of hauling them to get them used to all the noise and the different ground and different facilities then they're pretty much ready to go," said Jerry Olson from the rodeo.

While this is all fun, it also helps five local organizations: The Hamel Lions Club, Volunteer Fire Department and Athletic Club as well as the John Pohlker Legion Post and the Heinzen-Ditter VFW.

Kids can get free pony rides from 6 to 7 p.m. Friday and then the rodeo starts at 7:30 p.m. The Hamel Rodeo runs until Sunday.