Opp Rattlesnake Rodeo Draws Large Crowd
It’s not every day you can get up close and personal with a rattlesnake.
“This is close as i want to get to but it’s interesting to see these types of snakes and seeing them close up,” says Lisa Maddox.
“It’s my first time being at a rattlesnake rodeo and the first thing i did was to see if i could like the rattlesnake meat and i did,” says Jake Napier.
Opp’s Rattlesnake Rodeo is a favorite for people of all ages, showing off the the eastern diamondback rattlesnake. They’re not only used for entertainment. They have a bigger purpose after the rodeo.
“They are released for research like for anti venom, helps for arthritis. it also helps with people that are a free bleeder. it helps to stop the bleeding,” says snake handler, Bobby Crutchfield.
The rodeo has become a staple for Opp since it started.
“It brings money into the town, brings people in to come see us,” says Don Childre.
Those people are learning everything they need to know from afar about rattlesnakes.
“I learned that these guys have to be quick on their feet to handle these things because they’re pretty fast,” says Maddox.
“Professionals do this, handling snakes. do not try to do this on your own, just be aware of your surroundings, especially with little kids,” says Crutchfield.
On lookers hope this is their only encounter with the dangerous snakes.
“I wouldn’t want to see one in the woods but they’re nice.” says Napier.
The rodeo continues Sunday at Channel-Lee Stadium in Opp starting at 10 am. Admission is $10. Children ages six and under are admitted for free.
