Corpus Christi Rodeo 2021: What to watch for

Get on your cowboy hat and boots because the rodeo is in town. 

The Corpus Christi Rodeo will kick off Thursday night with the first of of four consecutive performances. 

The rodeo will start at 7 p.m. on May 6, 7 and 8 at the American Bank Center. On Sunday, the final event will begin at 3 p.m.

After being cancelled in 2020, there is a lot to be excited for in this year's event. Here are a few things to keep your eyes on: 

What to know

Rodeo Corpus Christi has partnered with the World Champions Rodeo Alliance and will be playing host to the first stop on the 2021 WCRA Triple Crown of Rodeo tour. 

Rodeo athletes from all over the world have qualified for the event virtually and will compete for a $500,000 purse. 

“This innovative approach to rodeo will allow us to grow prize money for rodeo athletes, showcase the city of Corpus Christi, and ultimately return more dollars toward scholarships for students in South Texas,” said Buccaneer Commission President & CEO Johnny Philipello in a statement.

Some nights of the rodeo will also have its own theme along with special presentations. Among the themes will be college night and military/first responders night.

"All the dollars raised from these events go to support scholarships," Philipello said. "We're excited to, hopefully, continue to take care of that mission."

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What to watch for

For the first time, professional bull riders from all over North America will be allowed to participate in the local rodeo. 

The 2020 PBR world champion, Jose Vitor Leme, and the No. 4 ranked rider, João Ricardo Vieira, will be amongst the weekend's contestants. 

All four days of the rodeo will be broadcasted nationwide a CBS Television network broadcast, including Sunday's rodeo finals, at a time and date to be determined.

Tickets can be purchased to any day of the four-day event at the Buc Days website or at the American Bank Center Box Office.

Christopher Howley covers entertainment and community news in South Texas. Support more coverage like this at Caller.com/subscribe.