NATCHEZ — Locals who are not already tied up this weekend could enjoy family fun while helping a Natchez calf-roping star make it to his next rodeo.

After competing in Jackson, Tennessee and Meridian, local rodeo athlete Lionel Brown Jr. racked up enough points to qualify for the Lucas Oil American Quarter Horse Association World Show starting Nov. 1 in Oklahoma City, and he’s asking for help from home to get him there.

“My entry fee is very, very high,” Brown said. “I decided to do a fundraiser to help me enter the show. … You’ll get a chance to meet me and my horse … and get to participate in other activities.”

For a $5 entry fee, Brown said children and adults could enjoy family-friendly entertainment that includes face painting, a petting zoo and games.

The fundraiser lasts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Tractor Supply Co. at 780 U.S. 61 North.

Food will be provided for $5 per plate, Brown said, and the menu includes fried fish, pulled pork sandwiches, fajitas and nachos.

Brown, born and raised in Natchez, is a graduate student at Mississippi State University and has been roping cattle since 2002. He competes professionally in rodeos nationwide.

Brown’s loyal steed, Smart Rappin-Breezy, is 5 years old, trained to compete and helped him qualify for the rodeo in Oklahoma City, he said.

Brown said he and Breezy would be happy to meet and greet those who stop by this weekend, along with many other rodeo animals and friends.

“It’s a great way to have fun on a Saturday while helping me get to Oklahoma City,” Brown said.