By SCOTT HARRISON

s.harrison@krdo.com

COLORADO SPRINGS - "Ready to Ride."  That's the theme for the 69th Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo July 8-11 at the Norris Penrose Event Center.

Organizers say the rodeo is among the 16 best rodeos in the country.  Proceeds help a variety of military charities.  The rodeo will offer special discounts for military families this year.

Preceding the rodeo is the annual Street Breakfast and ride by the Pikes Peak Range Riders June 24 downtown, from 5:30 a.m. until 9 a.m.  The Range Riders plan to travel to the Walsenburg area later that week, and ride back from there.  The Rodeo Parade is July 7 at 6:30 p.m.  

The rodeo offers more entertainment this year, and for the first time will become part of the Wrangler Million Dollar Tour for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.  Visit their website for more information about the rodeo and ticket prices.