Annual Rupununi Rodeo cancelled over Coronavirus

Amid concerns over the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the highly anticipated Rupununi Rodeo has been cancelled this year, a statement from the Rupununi Livestock Producers Association (RLPA) revealed.

The Rodeo was scheduled for April 11 and 12 at the Triple R Rodeo Ground in Lethem, Region Nine.

“With great regret we wish to inform the general public that the Rupununi Rancher’s Rodeo has been cancelled due to the rising concerns of the public health threat of the coronavirus,” the statement noted.

The Association said the decision was taken in consultation with regional stakeholders. They said the safety of the residents in the town and potential visitors is of great concern.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that this event does not contribute to the spread of this pandemic. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this cancellation will cause and encourages everyone to follow the protocols of health experts and local authorities,” the Association stated.

Managing Director at the Takutu Hotel in Lethem, Marcel Johnson told the News Room that thousands will be affected as well as the community but they are still persons who have shown interest in visiting the area.

Some of the activities at the event included bareback bronco, saddle bronco, steer roping, and wild cow milking –where vaqueros or cowboys fight to show their supremacy.