Gold Country Pro Rodeo comes out of chute under the stars

The Gold Country Pro Rodeo is gearing up to return to Auburn this weekend with three days of competition at the Gold Country Fairgrounds. This year's field is expected to be the largest the rodeo has had, meaning fans will be treated to nonstop action. The Gold Country Pro Rodeo has been a part of Auburn for nine decades and has brought world-class entertainment and athletes to the foothills. This year's rodeo kicks off Friday night at 7 p.m. for a rodeo under the stars, which has become one of the more popular events since it was added. The action continues Saturday afternoon at 4 p.m. and continues Sunday at 2. There will be a full slate of events this weekend, ranging from barrel racing, steer wrestling and calf roping to the popular bronc riding and bull riding. Before the rodeo, there will be a mutton busting competition for the youngsters. The Gold Country Pro Rodeo kickoff party will be held Thursday night at Auburn Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM at 6 p.m. and is free to attend. There will be a dummy roping competition, food trucks, activities for kids, live music and more. Gates open each day 2 1/2 hours before the start of the rodeo and it will be held rain or shine. For more information, visit goldcountryprorodeo.com.