GOODING - The Gooding Pro Rodeo beat out venues like Reno, Caldwell and the Snake River Stampede to be named the 2009 Rodeo of the Year by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Wilderness Circuit.

"Gooding is very proud to have been selected for this award with such tough competition," said Gooding Pro Rodeo Manager Don Gill. "This award really means something to the community because it was voted on by the contestants over many other really good rodeos."

The award was voted on by the members of the Women's Professional Rodeo, barrel racers of the Wilderness Circuit.

The Wilderness Circuit area includes Idaho, Nevada and Utah, one of 12 circuits within the PRCA.

Gooding was one the most exciting venues, Gill said, with the top 10 barrel racing finishes ranging from 17.2 seconds to 17.5 seconds.

Lana Parker, award chairwoman, said the 130 ballots were cast by the barrel racers, with votes measuring factors from hospitality to grounds.

"They felt they were treated the very best at the Gooding Pro Rodeo," Parker said. "Some of the comments were they had the best grounds and they enjoyed the wonderful hospitality tent set up every night."

This was the first year such an award was given but Parker said they hope to set precedent and give awards on an annual basis.

Blair Koch may be reached at blairkoch@gmail.com or 208-316-2607.