Locals attend 49th Annual Worthen Memorial Old Time Fiddlers Contest

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Yuma Territorial Chapter of the Arizona Old Time Fiddlers Association (AOTFA) hosted the 49th Annual Yuma Silver Spur Rodeo Worthen Memorial Old Time Fiddlers Contest this weekend.

The contest, which kicked off Saturday, took place at Silver Spur Rodeo Clubhouse, located at 2577 E. County 14th Street, and was for contestants to showcase their talents to compete for cash and prizes in several categories.

There was also a silent auction during the contest, where people can bid on a variety of items, like a fiddle and a blanket.

Janet Shelby, Membership Secretary for the Territorial Chapter, shares how the contest benefits locals across Yuma County.

"It's just...very encouraging for families and community. It's a connection, musical connection, and really some great...discipline and skills that they'll enjoy all of their lives," Shelby explained.

In addition to local talent, contestants from states like Idaho, Washington and California also participated in the contest, according to Shelby.

The contest wrapped up Sunday, but Shelby said this was the first of three fiddle contests AOTFA is hosting throughout the state of Arizona.

To learn more about those contests, click here.