AIKEN, S.C. – After a hugely successful first night of the 15^th Annual USC Aiken Pro Rodeo presented by the USC Aiken Baseball team, head coach Kenny Thomas and his squad prepare for the final evening of events.

The event is in conjunction with the Western Carolina State Fair at the Aiken Fairgrounds. Tickets for the fair are $6 and that includes admission into the rodeo.

The rodeo is sanction by the International Professional Rodeo Association and has eight events of pro rodeo, including Bare Back Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Tie Down Roping, Team Roping, Cowgirl Breakaway Roping, Cowgirl Barrel Racing and Bull Riding.

“It was great last night as our first performance of the year was very successful,” Thomas said. “We have World Champion cowboys competing against some of the top rodeo stock in the nation and it was tremendous. After so many years, it is amazing to me how many fans we have at these events, many of which turn into Pacer fans during our USC Aiken athletic year.

“In the fall of 1999 when we first started, I don't think many people would have believed that 15 years later these events are still some of the most popular attractions in the CSRA. They have been a big part of our baseball program and we look forward to seeing a packed house Friday night.”

It is the first of two rodeo events each year, with the second being the USC Aiken Extra Inning Bull Riding on Jan. 18, 2014 at the James Brown Arena in Augusta, Ga.

The event Friday evening begins at 7 p.m.