McAlester Considering Reviving Prison Rodeo Tradition

The home of the state penitentiary is considering bringing back what was the nation's last remaining prison rodeo.

The Oklahoman reports McAlester city officials have begun discussing reviving the event that allowed inmates to compete in various activities after it closed in 2010. A professional bull riding organization has taken interest in resurrecting the city's tradition.

A number of residents along with city officials, have been trying to start the rodeo back up because it was a major source of income for the city that drew tourists from across the country, according to tourism manager Kathy Wall. Wall said that 89 percent of the revenue generated by the rodeo came from visitors from out-of-town.

The rodeo closed due to low staffing at the prison and the need for expensive repairs to the rodeo stadium.

2/5/2010 Related Story: State Budget Crisis Causes Cancellation Of 2010 Prison Rodeo

The Associated Press contributed to this report.