The South Congaree Championship Rodeo returns July 20-22 in West Columbia. The popular event is one of the premier rodeos in the state of South Carolina.

Event promoter Rance Woodley touted it as one of the best rodeo events around.

“First of all, we’re a covered rodeo so rain or shine, it goes on. You don’t have to worry about getting wet or whatever, we’re covered and even in the summer, you’re in the shade,” Woodley said. “There’s always a little breeze in the arena, it’s just a great event. We’ve grown. This is our ninth year and especially this year, I’m very proud of the fact that this is going to be a three-day, two-event rodeo. This is the only three-day, two-event IPRA [International Pro Rodeo Association] rodeo in South Carolina and our estimated payout this year for this event is $30,000.”

Woodley also mentioned that Lexington County and South Congaree have provided the ideal setting for an event like this and has helped shape it to be a quality event.

“Everybody in Lexington County was born to it,” Woodley said. “We’re very thankful to be here and and we’re very appreciative to the folks in Lexington County, especially South Congaree. Mayor [Cindy] Campbell here in South Congaree is a huge supporter of the rodeo and does whatever she can to support it. We’re members of the chamber of commerce in West Columbia and they do a great job in promoting us and supporting us. This is a community event, it’s a family friendly event.”

Woodley also confirmed that “several existing world champions” are expected to perform at the event.

This rodeo will feature eight events and various attractions. There’s the classic bull riding event, bareback riding, tie down roping, team roping, barrel racing, breakaway roping and more.

Some of the featured performers will be a young horse trick rider and a rodeo clown who goes by the stage name “Hashtag” who has been described as a world-renowned entertainer.

There will also be plenty of food options with barbeque and ice cream vendors.