An alternative rodeo, in which men can barrel-race and women can ride bulls, is coming to the Utah State Fairpark June 1-3. The Utah Gay Rodeo Association will present its second annual rodeo and Wild West Festival, replete with 13 events, an evening street fair and more than 100 competitors.

The event will raise money for four charities this year: City of Hope's cancer and AIDS research, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Ballet West's youth-oriented programs and Wasatch Community Gardens.

"We are thrilled to be involved in this," said Holly Renolds of the M.S. Society's Salt Lake office during a UGRA press conference involving the charities on Saturday. The rodeo includes beginners' events, Wild West theme parties, concerts and a dance competition.

International rodeo spokesman Douglas Graff emphasized that the events are open to everyone. And, he added, care of "our animal contestants" is given special attention at the rodeos.

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For information about the June rodeo visit www.ugra.net or call 468-6283.

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