STURGIS - The annual Sturgis Sports Day weekend has many area residents and volunteers gearing up for fun weekend that features something for everyone. It has taken on a new look this year with a completely new set of board members with fresh new ideas.
“This year will look a little different,” said Dean Harris, Sturgis mayor. “The new set of board and executive members decided to not host a rodeo this year. We are still offering the mutton busting fun kid event as well as other numerous children’s events and activities sure to make all the younger people, excited about attending the weekend. The new board is very optimistic for this year and plans are already being put in place for next year. It has been very rewarding to see so many new volunteers from across the surrounding communities have stepped up to volunteer their time. It is the beginning of revitalizing the sports day weekend,” said Harris.
Friday, June 22 kicks off the weekend with a pancake breakfast at the Sturgis READ Club. Events on both days will feature something for everyone including a lot of activities for children. Some of the children's activities for both days will feature a petting zoo, plastic barrel train rides, rock climbing, pedal cars, zorb balls, face painting, treasure hunting in the sand and mutton busting. The 4-H Club will be featured as well as pony rides.
The main events feature, gymkhana events sponsored by the Etomaimie Valley Riders Club and chariot and chuckwagon races sponsored by the Eastern Professional Chariot and Chuckwagon Association, Saturday evening will conclude with a pulled pork supper, a cabaret with music provided by the Zuchkan Band and fireworks.
The main food booth will offer a wide variety of foods on both days. This year there is an added food booth at the ball diamonds to offer food for those who are playing in the ball tournament.
Sunday will feature a car show and shine, a cowboy church service and a Paws and Claws Adoption Day.