Sigma Chi philanthropy holds rodeo

With cowboys, cattle and a cause, Sigma Chi’s first ever rodeo brought the community together for two nights of high energy competition. Held at the Pike County Cattlemen's Association arena, the event featured everything from bareback riding and steer wrestling to team roping and barrel racing, all presented by Bo Campbell Rodeo Productions.  

However, behind the boots and buckles, there was a bigger cause. 

“We actually did raise $55,000 this year,” said Reagan Robinette, the Sigma Chi Philanthropy Chairman, who is a senior from Enterprise, Alabama. “The money is going towards Troy Health and Rehabilitation, which we chose about two years ago to keep our philanthropy here in the community of Troy and kind of see what it does for us.  

“We want to see the changes we are making with the money we are raising.”  

The money is all staying local. This event aimed to keep the impact close to campus and close to home. 

Bull rides were one of the actions that took place during the rodeo this past weekend. (Avery Lewis photo)

“It’s really important that you do things that will get the community involved so you can raise money, because your end goal is to raise money to fight for a better cause, so what better way to do it than a rodeo,” said Elle Caroline Blackmon, one of the audience members who is a sophomore from Spanish Fort, Alabama. “This is something you don’t get to experience a lot, and I haven’t been to a rodeo since I was little, so I was like, I'm definitely going to be there.” 

With packed stands, vendor trucks and families filling the arena, the rodeo did just that. For the professional riders, the weekend wasn’t just another stop; it was a chance to do something meaningful. 

Bull riders must stay on the bull for a minimum of eight seconds to earn a score. (Avery Lewis photo)

“If you’re going to do something, do it and be good at it, be the best at it and go all in,” said Professional Bronc and Bull Rider Randy Sambles.  

Sigma Chi says that’s exactly what it did. From securing sponsors to selling tickets, this event compiled months of preparation into two nights of adrenaline and generosity.  

Sigma Chi intends to make this philanthropy rodeo an annual tradition at Troy, continuing to grow both the event and its impact on the community. 

To keep up with its future events, visit @troysigmachi on Instagram.