WEST VALLEY CITY — What better way to celebrate the anniversary of statehood than by enjoying the West's first extreme sport?

"The rodeo is coming off a banner year last year," said Days of '47 Rodeo director Brad Harmon. "We've done everything we can to make it as affordable and as entertaining as possible."

The challenge for rodeos everywhere is to keep one of sports' oldest traditions in the country relevant to audiences that often prefer the latest high-tech craze to tradition.

Harmon believes they've found the perfect balance of innovation and tradition for the Days of '47 Rodeo, which has been a Pioneer Days staple since 1949. The rodeo begins tonight at 7 p.m., and runs every night through July 25th at the Maverick Center in West Valley.

"We've brought the Pro-Tour FMX guys back, so they'll be performing at the end of every rodeo," said Harmon of the freestyle motocross team that offers audiences thrills with high-flying motorcycle stunts.

In addition to the popular motocross show, Harmon said the rodeo still offers some of the best entertainment around as the world's best in bronc riding, bull riding, barrel racing and roping compete for more than $200,000 in prize money.

July is the busiest time of year for rodeo athletes who often compete in a different rodeo every night for the next two weeks. This stretch is important because winning prize money means qualifying for the National Finals Rodeo in November in Las Vegas.

Harmon said organizers have offered a number of promotions to make the rodeo affordable to everyone.

One of the best deails, he said, is the Family Night special. Patrons can buy a package for a family of four, six or 10 that includes reserved seating, hot dogs and a soda for $20 to $80 off, depending on which seats are purchased.

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There are also $5 seats for every rodeo and Tuesday's Tough Enough to Wear Pink night benefits the Huntsman Cancer Research Foundation.

"We had record attendance last year and we hope that continues this year," said Harmon.

email: adonaldson@desnews.com

twitter: adonsports

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