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Rodeo with a Purpose

The 7th Annual FCA Pro Rodeo

Article by Lindsey Hickman

Photography by Joe Gonsalves Photography

Originally published in Lebanon City Lifestyle

The roar of the crowd, the dust rising from the arena, and the thrill of the competition—it’s rodeo season in Wilson County, and this year’s 7th Annual Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Pro Rodeo promises to be bigger and better than ever. Led by Rodeo Committee Chairman, Ed Barber and presented by Mending Fences Cowboy Church, this event isn’t just about top-tier rodeo action; it’s also a heartfelt mission to support local communities and share a message of hope.

From Fundraiser to Mission Project

In 2018, Mending Fences Cowboy Church, under the guidance of its members and leaders, envisioned hosting a rodeo to support their church. However, as discussions unfolded, a broader vision emerged. The team felt a calling to extend their support beyond their church and help another local ministry. After much prayer and consideration, they decided to use a significant portion of the rodeo’s proceeds to benefit the local Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).

Tim Bryant, Area Director for Wilson County FCA, was approached about this partnership. “The idea of blending rodeo excitement with a cause as impactful as FCA was truly inspiring,” says Bryant. “The rodeo’s transformation into a mission project provided a unique platform to support our programs and extend our outreach.”

Thus, the FCA Pro Rodeo was born—a collaborative effort that combines thrilling rodeo events with the goal of supporting local youth through FCA’s initiatives. Beyond raising funds, the rodeo serves as an opportunity for Mending Fences Cowboy Church to share their faith and build connections within the community.

Join the Excitement

The 7th Annual FCA Pro Rodeo is set to take place at the James E. Ward Ag Center, 945 E. Baddour Pkwy, Lebanon. The event will not only offer top-notch rodeo action but also an opportunity to support the FCA and experience the fellowship of Mending Fences Cowboy Church.

Be a part of this extraordinary event, where thrilling rodeo performances meet community spirit and faith-driven mission. The rodeo gates open on October 4th and 5th at 6:30pm, and all are welcome to witness professional rodeo at its best while supporting a meaningful cause.

FCA Pro Rodeo Fun Facts

  1. Top-Notch Rodeo Experience: The FCA Pro Rodeo is produced by one of the leading rodeo companies in the industry. As an International Professional Rodeo Association (IPRA) sanctioned event, it features eight sanctioned events, including bull riding, bareback bronc riding, saddle bronc riding, breakaway roping, barrel racing, team roping, calf roping, and steer wrestling. Attendees can expect a high-caliber performance with some of the top-ranked competitors showcasing their skills.

  2. Special Appearances: This year, attendees will be treated to a special appearance by Kaelanne Quinonez, Miss Rodeo USA 2024, adding a touch of glamor and excitement to the event. Her participation not only enhances the rodeo’s appeal but also brings additional visibility to the supporting causes.

  3. Community Connection: The rodeo is more than just a series of events—it’s a community gathering that fosters relationships and builds a sense of unity. By supporting the FCA and promoting Mending Fences Cowboy Church, the rodeo helps strengthen local networks and encourages collaboration among different community groups.

What is FCA?

Since 1954, FCA has been challenging coaches and athletes on the professional, college, high school, junior high and youth levels to use the powerful platform of sport to reach every coach and every athlete with the transforming power of Jesus Christ. FCA focuses on serving local communities like Wilson County around the globe by engaging, equipping and empowering coaches and athletes to unite, inspire and change the world through the gospel; charged with a mission to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.

A Closer Look at Mending Fences Cowboy Church

Established in 2015 by Pastor Fred Davis and his wife Ann in Lebanon, Mending Fences Cowboy Church offers a welcoming, non-denominational environment where everyone can feel at home. Known for its warm, family-like atmosphere, the church embraces cowboy culture with a strong western heritage. Attendees can expect uplifting sermons and a unique blend of cowboy and country gospel music performed by talented local musicians.

The church also runs Wrangler Church, a vibrant children’s program that shares Bible stories through engaging activities. Although the church faced the tragic loss of its founders in 2021, it has continued to thrive and serve the community. The upcoming arrival of Pastor Steve Russell and his family from Montana later this year marks a new chapter for Mending Fences Cowboy Church, promising continued growth and outreach.

For more information on the rodeo and Mending Fences Cowboy Church, visit or join us on Sunday mornings at 10:00am for a warm welcome and a meaningful worship experience at Starstruck Farm, 10471 Highway 109, N., Lebanon.

Rain or shine at the James E. Ward Ag Center, 945 E. Baddour Pkwy, Lebanon

  • Friday, October 4: Gates Open at 6:30 PM, Rodeo Starts at 7:30 PM
  • Saturday, October 5: Gates Open at 6:30 PM, Rodeo Starts at 7:30 PM

Advance Tickets Adults (12+): $10, Youth (6-12): $5, under 6: FREE

  • Boot Barn, The Western Look, Wilson County Coop, Lebanon
  • Sumner County Coop, Gallatin

Online at fcarodeo.org:

  • Adults: $12.51, Youth: $7.18

At the Gate:

  • Adults: $15
  • Youth: $10
  • Children under 6: FREE

Events:

Bareback Bronc, Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc, Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing, Team Roping, Breakaway Roping, Calf Roping

Sponsors Include:

ONEOK, All Access Coach Leasing, US Army, TN Army National Guard, Boot Barn, Lebanon RV Center, Bates Ford, Wilson Bank & Trust, City of Lebanon, Whataburger, Denny Century Farm, Sunbelt Rentals, Fastglass Marine, TriStar Machine, J&D Specialized Equip. Hauling, Starstruck Farm, Rise, Manheim Auto Auction, TN Baptist Mission Board, Lebanon City Lifestyle.

Vendors:

Lisa’s Kettle Corn, Fried Green Tomatoes, Somthin’ Smokin Grill, The Western Look, Kona Ice

Special Guests:

  • Miss Rodeo USA 2024: Kaelanne Quinonez
  • Rodeo Announcer: Dillon Gross
  • Rodeo Barrelman: Johnny Allen

Sanctioning & Production:

  • Sanctioned By: IPRA, Oklahoma City, OK
  • Produced By: Danny Hedrick, Hedrick Rodeo Company, Madisonville, TN