Matedo expects a greater turnout than usual especially from neighbouring countries now that the Takutu Bridge is open.
The rodeo will be held in Lethem from April 2-4. And Matedo, who is also the President of the Rupununi Chamber of Commerce, said the Rodeo committee is in the process of improving the grounds through a $12 million fund from sponsors to accommodate visitors.
The major sponsors of the rodeo are Demerara Distillers Limited, which gave the committee in excess of $5 million; Digicel which donated $1 million and Ansa McAl – Carib, which donated $500,000. Matedo expressed his gratitude to these and the companies that have contributed to the rodeo.
Further Matedo said that there are 55 plots allocated to the commercial zone, which will have businesses from all over the country. This alone, Matedo believes, will see an increase in visitors to the area since many of the businesses are from out of the region and are going there to enjoy the show as well.
Meanwhile, three new businesses are expected to be commissioned before the official opening of the rodeo on April 3; a boutique, a restaurant and hotel and a Chinese clothing store located in a three-storey building.
According to Matedo, in excess of $300 million have been invested in the commercial zone of the region inclusive of the three businesses which are to be commissioned.
However, he pointed out, there was not sufficient accommodation for the influx of expected visitors. Matedo said they are encouraging persons who are desirous of visiting the area to walk with tents to camp out.
“The committee will find safe, secure areas with access to water and washroom facilities. It will be a totally safe environment,” for persons who will be camping out, Matedo added.
Meanwhile, the weekend affair includes a Friday night lime and pageant. According to Matedo there are seven contestants from within the region taking part in the pageant. The beauties will be displaying cowboy wear on pageant night which is April 2.
The rodeo show will be declared officially open in a ceremony on April 3. The winner of the pageant, along with the other constants will also be present on horseback. Events that day include saddle and bareback bronco, bull riding, spear roping among others. The activities continue into the next day.
Matedo said the rodeo offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Rupununi Savannahs with the Kanuku Mountains. Further, persons also get to take in the beauty of the Pakarimas, he added. The opportunity to visit Brazil also awaits persons who choose to attend the rodeo show for their Easter weekend.
