Memorial bull ride slated for June 17

The Ridge Riders are putting the final touches on the Cleatis Lacy Memorial Bull Ride, coming to the rodeo grounds Friday, June 17, at 7 p.m.

Lacy, a well-known rodeo cowboy from Grand Coulee, died May 14, 2011, at 89. He was still involved in helping on the rodeo circuit at the time.

This will be the fourth annual bull ride honoring Lacy, who was a long-time rodeo participant, starting at an early age. As a youth, his family gave him the nickname “cowboy” because he rode every animal on the farm — calves, pigs, sheep and an old pony.

Lacy competed in a number of rodeo rough stock events near his home in Montana and represented the state of Montana at the Calgary Stampede when he was 16.

Perhaps Lacy is best noted as a sort of a cowboy’s “cowboy,” who helped in the chutes and wherever he was needed at rodeos and shows.

He was a resident of Grand Coulee for the last 65 years of his life.

Ridge Rider officials said some 30 bulls, provided by G. L. Whitman, of George, Washington, will be on hand for the bull riding show.

Whitman said last week that four of the bulls have been in the finals in Las Vegas, and all of them will be a test for riders here at the event.

The special memorial event will also feature a wild horse race and junior steer riding.

Gate admission is $12, and children under 10 will be admitted free. Tickets are on sale at Loepp Furniture and Appliance in Grand Coulee.