Copper Hill Arena brings the Wild West to the area

The sun sinks low over the horizon as a cowboy adjusts his hands to gain a better grip on his reins. The bronc he sits astride fidgets nervously, its eyes darting as the crowd in the grandstands begins to sit forward in anticipation as the gate swings wide open, unleashing a torrent of kicking hooves and flailing arms.

Eight seconds later the cowboy hops off the bronc, a satisfied grin on his face as the crowd roars its approval.

That my friends is the rodeo experience, and that is what is now available, thanks to one family’s vision and passion for the rodeo.

Located on the edge of Amish Country in Wilmot, Copper Hill Arena is the area’s newest permanent outdoor western sports venue, where the Wild West comes right to the front door of Wayne and Holmes counties.

Centrally located on 30 acres of rural property, Copper Hill Arena is more than a place; it’s a movement. Built on the Yutzy family vision, it’s a tribute to the values that make America great.

“We believe in keeping the spirit of the West alive, not just in the arena dirt, but in the way we treat our neighbors, the pride we take in a hard day’s work, and the joy of gathering with friends and family under an open sky,” Ryan Yutzy said.

Years in the making, the Copper Hill Arena team has poured its heart and soul into every rail, chute, pen and rodeo gate to bring western sports fans a genuine, fast-paced and family-friendly experience.

While Copper Hill Arena strives to preserve an atmosphere of times, the team recognized it shouldn’t completely ignore the advantages of modern technology.

Thus, additions like hi-definition big screen and a state-of-the-art sound system enhance the presentation and give fans a richer experience.

With free parking for cars, buggies and bikes alike, visitors are invited to bring a blanket or lawn chair, pick a spot on the hillside, and watch skilled rodeo contestants compete for prize money and bragging rights, even as they enjoy the peaceful countryside surrounding the arena.

While the rodeo may rule the roost and usher people back to the Wild West, there’s more to Copper Hill than the thrill of the eight-second ride.

The area also hosts live music, food trucks and other entertainers. And why not top off an evening of entertainment with a fireworks display?

In addition, Copper Hill is not only preserving tradition, but also creating a welcoming space for other events.

The public is invited to bring the whole family, cheer on all the rodeo event favorites and under dogs, and experience the fast-paced, ground-shaking action as Copper Hill celebrates what makes rural America great.

Copper Hill Arena truly is where tradition meets the future and “Where the West Rides On.”

This new arena will open its gates to inaugural action on Saturday, July 12, where rodeo thrills, live music, food and fireworks will create plenty of excitement.

Tickets are available at www.copperhillarena.com. Copper Hill Arena is located at 11600 Dolway Ave., near Wilmot.