On May 6, cowboys from across the U.S. will gather in Kingfisher to compete in the second annual Cowboys for Cancer “Tough Enough to Wear Purple” steer wrestling competition. Proceeds from the event will benefit cancer research at OMRF.
Sponsored by the Floyd Cross family of Kingfisher, the competition is held to celebrate Cross’ victory over cancer in 2010.
“Dad fought cancer for 12 years, and our rodeo friends were there for us all along the way,” said Sherrie Cross, Floyd’s daughter and event coordinator. “Thanks to advances in research, we still have Dad with us. This is our way of giving back and having fun at the same time.”
Raffle prizes will include a football signed by former University of Oklahoma football coach Barry Switzer, steaks, a side of pork, handmade afghans and gift certificates.
“Since OMRF was founded 66 years ago, rural Oklahomans have given generously to help our scientists find better treatments for diseases like cancer,” said OMRF Vice President of Development Penny Voss. “Grassroots support from the Cross family and others like them makes a real difference, and we applaud them for putting their hearts into events like this one. From the cowboys in the arena to the fans in the stands, they’re helping OMRF fight human disease, and we’re grateful to all of them.”
The event will be held at the Kingfisher Roundup Club Arena, 13th Street and Elks Road in Kingfisher at 2:00 p.m. on May 6. To enter, contact Sherrie Cross at (405) 313-1776 or (405) 375-4872. Entries will be accepted starting May 1 and will close at 1:30 p.m. on the day of the event.
“Floyd’s doing so well now, we hope to have him on horseback in the arena on May 6,” said his wife, Bernice Cross. “We thought that might never happen again, so we’ve really got something to celebrate.”
