Mule Jump bounds in Oct. 8

— Mules will jump to the delight of the audience at the city’s largest - and most unique - event set for Saturday, Oct. 8.

The 23rd annual Pea Ridge Mule Jump will begin with opening ceremonies at 9 a.m., according to Mayor Jackie Crabtree.

The day’s festivities will begin with a 5K run at 7:30 a.m. from the high school.

There is a full day of events including the halter class (mule beauty pageant), barrel and flagraces, pole bending, and the mule jumping competition, according to committee chairman Nathan See. Contestants come from a sixstate area.

“Some events are destined to become a ‘don’t miss community opportunity’. We are honored to say that the Mule Jump has become just that for many,” See said. “The Mule Jump brings in more than 4,000 people - we are known as the Mule Jump Capital of the World !”

Antique cars and trucks will be on display. Food and beverages, T-shirts, hats, mementos and other items will be on sale. Vendor booth spaces are available for $50, with non-profit booths available for $30. Sponsorships for the various events are also available to help offset the cost of trophies and cash prizes. Sponsors will be recognized in all publicity for the event. Media sponsors to-date in-include KFSM television, NWAMedia, KIX104, The Big Nickel, Bright Design Graphics, Northwest Specialties Printing and The Star Shopper.

“Through supporters’ generosity we can create more awareness of this gem of the Ozarks, and give our northwest Arkansas neighbors continuing,unique local entertainment,” Crabtree said.

The event is open to the public; tickets are $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 6 - 12, and free for children 5 and under. The competition fee is $5 per participant. Competitors may register at the gate, however pre-registration is recommended.

More than $4,000 in cash prizes will be awarded to winners of the competition, See said, along with the trophies and other awards.

For information to compete or be a sponsor, go to www.pea-ridge-ar.com/ mulejump or contact See at [email protected] or call 903-1520.

News, Pages 1 on 08/17/2011