LUSK – The second annual Roping for Toys was held Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, at the home of the event’s founder and producer, Cory Clark. 

Ropers and ranchers from Niobrara County and surrounding areas supported the event which asked participants to donate a new toy for local children. With 110 total teams entered in the roping, the backseat of a pick-up truck was filled from floor to ceiling with toys. A total of 106 toys will be distributed to Lusk Early Childhood students and Niobrara County students, grades kindergarten through second.

Many local community members come together to make this event possible, which was started last year by Cory Clark with a desire to give back to his hometown. Clark had previously attended roping events where friends of his had organized similar events. 

“I got the idea from them [Clark’s friends] and I wanted to start it here in Lusk,” Clark said.

Clark said he holds back 20% of the proceeds to get more toys for children, gifts for the teachers. 

“I don’t keep anything, it’s all given back to the community,” Clark said. 

Event organizers wished to extend their appreciation to those who helped make this event “go off without a hitch:” Kaylee Barner for handling the entries and secretarial duties, Cody Clark for announcing, Brian and Sam Clark for the catering services, Gene and Kelly Roberts for the roping cattle, Clay Ashurst for flagging and the many others who helped and supported throughout the day.

Generous donations were provided by Ryan and Tim Temple, Jason Plummer, Corky Fosher, Fred and Sandy Thomas, De-Tye Vet Supply and The Insurance Corner.

Danny Williams and Jason Funival won the event with a first-place finish while Andrew Wasserburger and Hardy White took second place, Bodie Herring and Rick Shaw took third place, J.V. Bolden and Chuck Petersen took fourth place and Ty Thompson and Hardy White took fifth place.