A crowd favorite for all ages, Mutton Busting takes place each night during the rodeo and features some of the youngest cowboys and cowgirls in action. Children hold on tight as they ride sheep, showing off their grit and determination.

• When: all 3 nights during the rodeo.
• Where: rodeo arena – near gate / chutes.
• How to enter: must be pre-entered (sign up details are announced on our Flint Hills Rodeo Facebook page usually in April).
• Who: typically limited to children ages 5 to 7 who weigh no more than 55 lbs, helping ensure the well-being of both the riders and the sheep.
• What: Mutton Bustin’ is a lively rodeo event where young contestants try to ride a sheep for at least 6 seconds. After being fitted with required safety gear, each child is assisted onto the sheep and given quick guidance on how to ride. Riders who last the full six seconds receive a score, with the highest score winning. All participants must wear helmets and protective vests, and a parent or guardian must sign a liability waiver.

The Mutton Bustin’ is sponsored by Justin Boots, Fort Worth, TX.

The Calf Scramble is a fast-paced, high-energy event held each night during the rodeo, with different age brackets each night. Participants race into the arena in pursuit of a calf, competing to be the first to grab a ribbon from the calf’s tail and bring it to a judge in the arena. With plenty of excitement, laughter, and friendly competition, this event is always a hit with both contestants and spectators.

• When: all 3 nights during the rodeo.
• Where: rodeo arena – start at south end of the arena.
• How to enter: listen for announcements during the rodeo to sign up at the south end of the arena!
• Who:
  Thursday for ages 6-8
  Friday for ages 9-11
  Saturday for ages 12-14
• What:
  3 calves (age-size appropriate) with ribbons on their tails will be turned out in the arena. 3 places paid to “ribbon getters”, though all participants receive “a little moo-la!”

The Calf Scramble is sponsored by Scott Construction, Cottonwood Falls, Kansas.

Before the main rodeo begins each evening, young rodeo fans can take part in the Buckaroo and Buckarette Stick Horse Rodeo. Kids bring their imagination to life as they ride stick horses through a series of fun activities, getting a taste of rodeo action of their own. It’s a playful and engaging way to kick off the night’s festivities for the youngest fans.

• When: all 3 nights before the rodeo – 6:00 PM.
• Where: Dance Pavilion.
• How to enter: Just show up and join in the fun.
• What: Before each night of the Flint Hills Rodeo, kids gather at the dance pavilion at 6 PM for their own mini rodeo — using stick horses. A “Stick Horse Rodeo” gives kids a chance to be part of the rodeo experience and creates a fun, memorable tradition for families attending the rodeo. Dress in your best western outfit to really make the most of it and don’t forget to bring your camera! These are the memories that last a lifetime!

The Buckaroo and Buckarette Stick Horse Rodeo is sponsored by Brown-Bennett-Alexander Funeral Home, Cottonwood Falls, Kansas.