GERRY, N.Y. — Welcome to Rodeo City, aka Gerry, in Chautauqua County, which is home to the oldest consecutive rodeo east of the Mississippi.

Tom Atwell has been the third-generation rodeo chairman for the past 20 years.

"It just brings the old west to present times," said Atwell. "That's something we're very proud of."

More than 300 contestants from across the country and 250 animals will be on hand for the Gerry Rodeo. Participants will take part in eight standard events like bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding and tie-down roping, vying for thousands of dollars in prize money.

"It is very tough. Every dollar is one point. And each point at the end of the year can either propel them to the circuit finals, which there's 12 of those across the United States or the national finals in Las Vegas, where they're competing for over $10 million," said Atwell.

In addition to the competition, fans can also expect a number of midway vendors and the traditional BBQ beef dinner.

Proceeds from the event benefit the Gerry Volunteer Fire Department, it's only fundraiser of the year.

"It's the people's way of helping us, help them," said Atwell. "For all our equipment, repairs, replacement, buying new stuff, if ever there's an emergency."

The rodeo runs July 31 through Aug. 3.

The rodeo is part of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association based in Colorado, the oldest and largest professional rodeo sanctioning body in the world.