Gunlock, UT

The Gunlock Rodeo began in 1945 and has become a tradition for many southern Utah families each year. The event runs this year from Thursday, June 30 through Saturday, July 2, 2011 and begins each evening at 8 pm. The Gunlock Rodeo was started by some of the locals who were "World War II" guys and has continued to be a community favorite. Over 500 participants are expected for this year's program with events ranging from bull riding to mutton bustin'.

One of the events held each year is the donkey-watermelon competition. Two teams of riders compete against each other in a bareback race on a donkey to pick up a watermelon at the far end of the arena and return it without losing hold of the fruit. Needless to say, not many watermelon make it back across the line in one piece!

Funds raised from the rodeo help support much of the Gunlock community including the park, water system and Town Hall.

The Gunlock Rodeo is held at the Gunlock Rodeo grounds, at the south end of town by the Main Street bridge. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 6-12 and younger children are free.

From I-15 Take Exit 6 to Bluff St and go North on Bluff to Sunset Blvd., then West on Sunset through Santa Clara and continue north on Old Hwy 91 following the signs to Gunlock. Contact Jay & Judy Leavitt for additional information – (435) 574-2415.

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