Chuckwagon Racing Featured on '09 Commemorative Poster

Mandan Rodeo Days is offering its sixth in a series of commemorative posters highlighting memories, notable contestants, and featured events of the annual Fourth of July celebration.

The 2009 poster, titled “Racing in Wagons,” showcases a crowd favorite from the Mandan Rodeo -- the chuckwagon racing. Limited edition poster prints of the original oil painting by artist Deb Knuth of Wilton are on sale at the Mandan Progress Organization office, 411 West Main St, Mandan, phone 751-2983. The cost is $10 each. Only 250 posters are available. The posters also will be sold at the Mandan Rodeo on July 2-4.

The flash and excitement of chuckwagon racing has its roots in the history of the old west. After finishing a long day on the range, cowboys would return to the wagon for a meal, some songs and stories with friends, and a well-earned rest. At the end of the week, cowboys in the area would meet up and head to town for some entertainment. The last one to town would have to buy the first round at the local saloon, so the cowboys were motivated to be as quick as possible in loading up and heading out. A fast team and efficient packing were the name of the game and still are in today’s races.

Chuckwagon racing remains especially popular in Canada. Alberta's first competition took place at the 1923 Calgary Stampede. Racers were urged to imitate the cowboys' breaking of camp, with all the speed, horsemanship, and skill required. Chuckwagon racing has been bringing Mandan Rodeo fans to their feet since 1997.

When painting “Racing in Wagons,” Knuth’s primary aim was to capture the fast-paced action of each team of four horses. Knuth’s other rodeo, horse and western prints have appeared on the cover of Today’s Horse magazine and in American Cowboy and Horses in Art magazines.

Among Knuth’s inspirations are her two sons, who formerly competed in rough stock events.  Her pen and inks have been published on covers of books and now hang in the North Dakota Supreme Court. Other samples of Knuth’s work can be viewed at www.debknuth.com.

Collect all 6 posters

Posters available at the Mandan Progress Organization, 411 W Main Street, phone 751-2983, or Lindy Sue's Candies and Soda Fountain, 316 West Main Street, Mandan, phone 663-5311. $5 each

North Dakota's Miss Rodeo America Ashley Andrews subject of '08 poster 

North Dakota cowgirl Ashley Andrews was Miss Rodeo America 2007. She came to the honor by way of serving as Miss Rodeo Mandan in 2005 before winning the state title in 2006. It had been 24 years since a North Dakota cowgirl won the national title.

Ashley is a cancer survivor. During her reign as Miss Rodeo North Dakota, she was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. After receiving six months of chemotherapy treatment she was given a clean bill of health to compete at the Miss Rodeo America Pageant.

"Having cancer was unexpected and I realized I had to cowgirl up," said Andrews. "Having the love and support of my family and friends helped make my recovery a success."

Taking challenges in stride is a predominant trait for Ashley Andrews. One of Ashley’s favorite quotes is "Opportunity is often missed because it is dressed in overalls and disguised as work."

As Miss Rodeo America, Ashley traveled more than 100,000 miles and appeared at over 100 rodeos during 2007. In addition to rodeo, Ashley also enjoys motivational speaking. Her community service has included the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, American Cancer Society and the North Dakota Cancer Coalition.

Since giving up her crown in December, Ashley has returned to her hometown of Bowman, N.D. In January 2008, she was hired as Executive Director of the Bowman County Development Corporation. She is simultaneously completing her studies in communications, public relations and political science through the University of Mary, Bismarck.

Little Yellow Jacket honored with 2007 commemorative poster 

Painting by Kaye Burian, Manning

World Bareback Champ Wayne Herman Honored with 2006 poster

World Champion Bareback Rider Wayne Herman, a Golden Valley, N.D., native, was the subject of the 2006 commemorative poster by artist Kaye Burian.

Other posters feature four-time World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider Brad Gjermundson of Marshall, N.D., and 1957 World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider Alvin Nelson of Grassy Butte, N.D.