High school rodeo state finals make Burwell debut

BURWELL, Neb. (KSNB) - The high school rodeo state finals began competition in Burwell Friday. It’s the first time -- outside of the COVID-19 season -- that Burwell has officially hosted the tournament, since the community won the bid over Hastings, which has hosted for two decades.

“We wanted to help the community of Burwell out because COVID was pretty hard on our businesses in a small town of just over 1,000 people,” Burwell Rodeo Committee President Jess Helgoth said. “To bring all of these people in for four days is huge for not only Burwell, but the surrounding area.”

Last year’s rodeo queen and Hastings native Kylie Lancaster ceremoniously rode out, which was one of the many early festivities before the events began. Outside of the competition itself, this is the start of a special era of state rodeo.

“It’s one of a kind,” said Ashlyn Bohling, Ms. Burwell Rodeo. “The community welcomes you with open arms and we’re excited to celebrate our 102nd year. I’m excited to see who the next Ms. Burwell Rodeo will get to be.”

Burwell will host for two years before its back up for bid.

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