Outdoor sporting events will become permissible again under Phase 2 of the Governor’s reopening plan just in time for the 10th annual Cross Family Steer Wrestling Benefit.

The jackpot fundraiser for the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation will start at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Kingfisher Roundup Club Arena at the county fairgrounds, Sherri Cross said.

The benefit event was started by the Cross family in 2010 to celebrate Floyd Cross achieving remission in his cancer battle.

After Floyd’s death, the steer wrestling became a memorial in his honor, but each year, proceeds raised have been donated to OMRF for cancer research, usually recognizing another family struggling with disease or loss as well.

This year’s event will honor Max Henderson, the 7-yearold son of Shane and Missi Henderson of Silver Creek Rodeo Company in Winfield, Kan., who died last September after his pony flipped on top of him when he was practicing his roping skills.

“He was an upbeat kid who touched so many lives and always had a smile on his face,” said Sherri, who knew the Hendersons through the rodeo community. “His family is encouraging everyone to honor his memory by living life enthusiastically.”

“Live Like Max” is the slogan on the back of this year’s commemorative T-shirts, which will be available for purchase at the event.

Sherri said this year’s event, as one of the first scheduled after coronavirus restrictions have been eased, is expected to draw a large field of competitors from across the country.

“We’re going to have cowboys from everywhere and I’m expecting some world champions too,” she said. “Anywhere between 60 and 100 of them – it’s the first event since the shutdown and everyone is raring to go.”

The youngest (19 and under) and oldest competitors (40 and older) also will be able to compete for fastest time in their age groups, with the winner getting his entry fee returned in addition to a prize.

Kaleb Summers of Claremore, who has local ties and starred in the reality TV show “The Brigade” on the Outdoor Channel, also is expected to make an appearance.

Local rodeo standouts Mitch Gardner and Tyrel Cline also are expected.

A concession stand fea-turing smoked ribs and other goodies also is planned. Ribs will be available for takeout as well for those who can’t stay for the action.

A prize drawing for three guns, five gift certificates and a guided hog hunt for four round out the fun planned for the afternoon.