The IGRA Finals Rodeo is a chartiable event, as are all IGRA rodeos. Net proceeds from the weekend's activities will benefit health and social agencies in the Phoenix area. IGRA member associations such as its Phoenix host, AGRA (Arizona Gay Rodeo Association), are composed of volunteers who regularly produce a high-quality rodeo and entertainment events.

IGRA rules are strictly enforced at all IGRA sanctioned rodeos. These guard the health and safety of both contestants and rodeo animals. The IGRA endorses the promotion of animal welfare and the humane, responsible treatment of animals in their housing, feeding, training,exercising and competition. Any contestant, official or contracted personnel who treat animals in an inhumane manner are immediately disqualified or reprimanded.

The Rodeo Association has previously held Finals Rodeos in San Francisco; Reno; Denver; Ft. Worth; Wichita; and Albuquerque. All events will be held at the Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds, SE corner of 29th Avenue and Baseline Road in Phoenix.

The Grand Marshal for this year's Finals Rodeo is Tom Vance of Minnepolis. Vance is the current President of IGRA, now serving a second year. He was elected as Grand Marshal at the IGRA Convention last July in Salt Lake City.

The Finals Rodeo features the top five contestants in each event from each of the four IGRA divisions across the United States and Canada. Contestants qualify for the Finals Rodeo by winning the highest scores from 17 regional rodeos held throughout the rodeo year [November 1 to October 31].

IGRA rodeos feature traditional rodeo events such as Bull Riding, Bareback Bronc Riding Barrel Racing, Team Roping and 9 others in all. IGRA rodeos are intended to be amateur events and each event is open to open to both men and women on an equal basis.

Contestants are competing to be titled International Champion in each event. That title goes to the person or team with the highest score or best timing during 48 hours of rodeo. Contestants also win money, buckles and ribbons for their efforts.

Another part of the IGRA Finals Rodeo weekend is the IGRA Royalty Competition. Representatives from member associations will compete for the titles of Mr. Ms. and Miss IGRA 1998 at the Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds from Thursday, October 23rd to Saturday night, October 25th when the winners are announced. The IGRA Royalty serve to represent IGRA at a variety of functions and at local rodeos throughout the coming year. The royals also help organize fund-raising activities both on behalf of member associations.

Tickets to the Finals Rodeo are $12 per day and admission to the evening dances is free! Children under the age of 12 are admitted free to all events.

For information about IGRA, contact Thom Sloan at [505] 272-2670 or E-mail to tsloan@salud.unm.edu.