The Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) has announced that it will hold its inaugural Pro Futurity Finals on January 24-27, 2007, at the Diamond W Arena in Alvarado, Texas.

            WPRA Pro Futurity Committee Chairman Kim Thomas was enthusiastic about the decision to have the finals in the facility, which is located south of Fort Worth.

            “I’ve been to several barrel races at the Diamond W,” said Thomas.  “It’s a great facility with really great ground, and I think it’s a plus that we can set up a standard pattern in this arena.”

            “Also, it has the feel of a rodeo arena.  We’re looking forward to a great event in this first-class facility.”

            Diamond W Arena was purchased by Lisa McCool in 2005.  The facility features limestone walls, detailed tiling on the floors and a mural depicting cowboys chasing a stampede of longhorns.  Old pictures of Alvarado line the arena’s hallways, reflecting the area’s history from farms to local businesses.

            The Old West aura extends throughout the arena, with giant Lone Stars on the walls and decorative touches, such as antique saddles and wooden barrels.

            The indoor arena also includes modern conveniences, such as cushioned seats, concession stands and a bar and lounge.

            Besides the 200,000-square-foot indoor facility, the complex has an outdoor arena, party room, 234 box stalls and a 52,500-square-foot expo center.

            For more information on the Diamond W Arena or to take a virtual tour, visit www.diamondwarena.com

            WPRA is the governing body for women’s professional barrel racing.  It began in 1948 as a group of Texas ranch women who wanted to add a little color and femininity to the rough-and-tumble sport of rodeo and has grown to a million-dollar industry with women athletes riding well-conditioned racehorses.

            Each year, WPRA approves barrel races in hundreds of rodeos sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, with millions of dollars of prize money available.

            More information about WPRA can be found at wpra.com.  For additional information about the WPRA Pro Futurity Finals, e-mail wpra@magoteaux.com.  PHJ

   

For more info, contact: Lisa McCool (Diamond W Owner/Operator or email lisa@diamondwarena.com)