Community effort brings Casey Wilson Memorial Rodeo to life

The countdown is officially on.
In just a matter of days, the inaugural Casey Wilson Memorial Rodeo will make its debut in Flandreau — an event months in the making, fueled by an incredible amount of heart, hard work, and community support.
With all permits now officially secured, we want to extend sincere thanks to the City of Flandreau, Moody County, and the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe for their partnership and assistance in helping ensure this event comes together safely and smoothly. Pulling off something brand new takes a village, and we have been fortunate to have so many willing hands and supportive voices helping along the way.
To the sponsors, volunteers, contractors, businesses, donors, rodeo partners, and countless others across our community and region who have stepped up in big and small ways — thank you. And especially to the dedicated committee members of the newly formed Flandreau Rodeo Association, who have poured months of planning, meetings, fundraising, logistics, and heart into bringing this vision to life — thank you for believing in this event and seeing it through.
Online ticket sales are now officially live, and those who purchase in advance through the QR code or ticket link found on posters around the region and on social media can save a little versus day-of gate pricing. Advance ticket sales also help us better prepare for the crowd we hope to welcome. Tickets will, of course, also be available at the gate the day of the event at full price.
For me personally, and our extended family, this rodeo carries even deeper meaning.
As many know, Casey was my husband — a cowboy through and through, with a heart bigger than life itself. In many Native traditions, the year following a death is considered sacred — a time when the spirit remains near, concluding its earthly journey before finally being released to join the ancestors. At the 12-month mark, loved ones gather not only to grieve, but to celebrate a life, honor that journey, and help lovingly send that spirit onward.
At 2 p.m. Saturday during rodeo weekend, we will gather for that sacred honoring.
Those who walked alongside Casey in life, love, friendship, family, and in the difficult days surrounding his passing are invited to attend. The gathering will include ceremony, remembrance, and a light meal as we celebrate the man he was.
To help us plan appropriately for food and seating, we would be so grateful if those planning to attend could RSVP in advance through the specific honoring event posted on the Casey Wilson Memorial Rodeo Facebook page, including how many will be attending with your family.
And because events like this entire weekend only happen with helping hands, we’re also continuing to welcome volunteers willing to pitch in throughout rodeo weekend. If you’ve been looking for a way to be part of something special, the volunteer sign-up link remains open.
This rodeo was built to celebrate rodeo, community, and a cowboy who meant so much to so many.
We cannot wait to welcome you.
Carleen Wild,
Moody County Enterprise