Mossy Pond in Patterson is gearing up to host the biggest rodeo showdown in Southeast Georgia Friday, May 23, and Saturday, May 24.
The action-packed event will feature professional bull riding, freestyle bullfighting, live music, vendors, fireworks, and more.
“This will be the biggest rodeo in southeast Georgia. I want to have an event that brings our community together” said Brad Arington, owner of Mossy Pond Lodge.
Arington stepped away from a traditional career in 2003 to pursue his passion, founding Mossy Pond with a vision that has since flourished into a 2,400-acre property including a world-class dog training program, premier hunting experiences, a 16-station sporting clay course and a full-service lodge featuring 19 luxury rooms. Guests can also enjoy their pro shop and gathering spaces, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts attracting visitors from across the United States and as far as Canada.
“This is my way of giving back. I think it will be good for the community,” Arington said.
This event is also about supporting local talent—including Patterson’s own bull riding hero, Drake Dowling. Just as Arington followed an unconventional path to build Mossy Pond into what it is today, Dowling is chasing his own dream in the rodeo world. The Showdown is a chance for the community to rally behind him, celebrate his hard work, and watch him compete in the sport he loves.
The Showdown is presented by Mossy Pond in partnership with Colt Hartt of C.45 Rodeo Entertainment. Hartt, a Patterson resident and professional rodeo clown, is bringing his expertise to help make the event an unforgettable experience.
The event will feature professional and freestyle bull riding and will take place in a large field at Mossy Pond. A full arena will be set up, including large video screens.
Dowling
Mossy Pond is located at 3099 Mayberry Road in Patterson (Offerman).
The family-friendly rodeo will include food and merchandise vendors, pony rides, bouncy houses, a mechanical bull, fire works and live music.
Gates open at 3 p.m. with the show beginning at 6 p.m. The event will be held rain or shine.
General admission is $20. Preferred seating is $50 and a VIP experience is $600. The VIP experience includes preferred seating, an after party event, lodging (2 queen beds) a meet and greet with the cowboys and bulls and access to the hospitality lodge.
