Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo celebrates cowboy and cowgirl action and crowns new rodeo royalty

The Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo (WRPR) wrapped up this past weekend following three days of competitive rodeo action that showcased bronc riding, barrel racing, calf tie-down roping and breakaway roping, team roping, steer wrestling, and the ultimate rodeo quest—to stay astride a bull for that infamous eight-second ride in the bull riding event.
The Lincoln County Rodeo Association brought the annual Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo to the Merrill Fairgrounds June 6-8, 2025, drawing in contestants from throughout Wisconsin and many other U.S. states, as well as Merrill residents and rodeo-lovers from beyond Lincoln County to get a taste of this traditional celebration of western cowboy and cowgirl action. Though the skills required to manage cattle and horses and the idea of rodeo itself—including rodeo “fashion,” like cowboy boots and hats and leather chaps—didn’t originate in the United States as we know it today, rodeo competitions and displays of horsemanship as we know them now have become iconic American traditions.
In addition to the flag-bearing cowgirls on horseback, the competitors, the rodeo clowns, and the kids events in the arena, one highlight of the weekend was the crowning of new rodeo royalty. Madilynn Skic was crowned the 2026 Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo Queen, a role that represents the grit, grace, and heart of rodeo and provides her the opportunity to promote rodeo, horsemanship, and western heritage for the coming year. Miah Graap was crowned 2026 Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo Princess and will serve alongside Skic in her role and fill in for her as necessary, such as when two events are being held simultaneously.
The WRPR Committee expressed appreciation for everyone involved in making this year’s rodeo a success—from the stock contractor who provided the livestock and the rodeo personnel that managed event operations—to the many sponsors, volunteers, vendors, and community members from Merrill and surrounding areas who participated.
The rodeo serves as both a competitive venue for regional and nationwide contestants and a community gathering that provides entertainment and draws tourists to the area which enhances the Merrill economy.
Next year’s Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo will be held June 12-14, 2026, so mark your calendars.
Enjoy some of the highlights of this year’s rodeo in photos captured by local photographer, Joseph Frederick.