PELHAM – American Legion Matthew Blount Post 555 is preparing to host its first rodeo, the American Legion Post 555 Pro Rodeo, next year, March 27-28, 2020.

The event, which will serve as a fundraiser for Post 555, will be set up in the vacant field adjacent to the Pelham Public Library on U.S. 31.

The rodeo is the result of Post 555’s partnership with the Southeastern Professional Rodeo Association. As the details are being ironed out, Post 555 Commander Kenneth Paschal and First Vice Commander Jerry McClain said the organization is in search of people and businesses to serve as sponsors for the event.

Paschal said the rodeo will be the first for Pelham. The family friendly event will be an eight-event pro rodeo with bareback, saddle bronc, calf roping, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, team roping, cowgirls barrel racing and bull riding. There will also be a mechanical bull, inflatables, vendors, food trucks/concessions and pony rides for guests to enjoy.

McClain said sponsorship opportunities range in price from $400 to $5,000. Sponsorship packages starting at $1,000 include a vendor booth in addition to large banners. Some sponsorship packages include free tickets and access to VIP parking.

“Sponsors are a critical component to the success of The American Legion Post 555 Pro Rodeo,” Paschal said. “Each person or business that agrees to advertise at this SPRA sanctioned event will receive varied levels of advertising on posters, flyers and in the newspaper. Their logo will appear on all internet and social media advertising for this event and radio promotions. There will also be meet and greets with rodeo contestants at the event according to the level of sponsorship you choose.”

All of the proceeds from the event will go to Post 555 to help fund programs, McClain said. Post 555 hosted or provided funding for about 40 community events last year. The Post’s primary goal is to provide services for veterans, but it also provides opportunities and programs for area youth and the community.

“All of our programs require funding,” Paschal said. “The success of this event would allow us to fund ourselves and be better equipped to serve veterans and the community.”

The rodeo will be from 7-9 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m. Admission is free for children 5 years and under, $10 for kids ages 6-12 and $15 for those 13 and up.

Those interested in providing sponsorship can contact McClain at Rangerjermac@gmail.com or by visiting Alpost555.com.