WEB EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: Monkeying Around for the PRCA Rodeo in Fargo
The rodeo rides into Fargo this weekend.
But while cowboys and cowgirls will ride broncs and bulls, it’s the smallest riders who could steal the show.
The PRCA rodeo promises two days of constant action.
“Great entertainment,” says rodeo announcer T.C. Long. “Great atmosphere, and no better place to be than right here.”
Bareback riding, steer wrestling, bull riding.
“This is America’s original sport,” Long adds.
He says no two rodeos are the same.
“Every night of rodeo, you see something different,” Long claims.
He’s not kidding.
Want to see something different?
How about a monkey riding a Border Collie?
Tim Lepard brings his animals to rodeos and sporting events across the country.
Lepard says, “It’s like a life-long dream, growing up as a kid and always wanting a monkey, and next thing you know people are paying you to show what you’re dreaming about.”
The monkey he showed off is named Little E, named after Elvis, of course.
Little E rides Tex, and together they’ll spend this weekend herding wild sheep.
“Can’t tell you what’s gonna happen because I don’t know myself,” adds Lepard.
For Lepard, bringing his monkeys and his dogs to Fargo isn’t just about giving people a show; it’s about showing off his family.
“Some people love their animals,” he explains, “but not as much as I do because they’re my family.”
He’s been working with monkeys for 39 years, for the chance to share his love with crowds around the country.
“The smiles on them,” Lepard says. “The laughter, of seeing the monkeys.”
That passion spreads through nearly everyone working at the rodeo.
Long adds, “Every day I look forward to getting in the truck or hopping on the plane and working.”
Whether you spend your time with a horse, a bull, or a monkey.
“How many people take a shower with a monkey? Not many,” says Lepard.
The rodeo starts at 7:30 P.M. this Friday and Saturday at the Fargodome.
Tickets are available on the Fargodome website and at the arena’s box office.
