For some, the Dixie Nationals have become a highlight of their year, but for those who participate in the Mount Olive ride the most fun is in the journey.
Over 25 wagons and 200 horseback riders will set out from Mize, Miss., on February 6, on their way to Jackson to see the Dixie National Rodeo. The journey is approximately 88 miles. People from all over the southern region, including visitors from Louisiana and Alabama, travel to participate in the journey.
The participants will become the responsibility of wagon master Tommy Sullivan, who is a second generation organizer of the trip. His father held the role of wagon master for 39 years before passing the torch to Tommy, who has held his position since 2009.
The convoy moves at a comfortable pace of 4 miles per hour, and only travel an average of 12 miles a day. The longest trek they make is 16 miles, which comes during the final push into Jackson. It is an inviting ride to riders of all skill levels. It is an open wagon ride, and anyone along the way is invited to join the group.
The wagon train will be in Simpson County on Sunday and Monday. They will arrive and stay overnight in Magee near Boswell on Sunday, before traveling and spending the night in D’Lo Water Park on Monday. From there the journey will continue until they arrive in Jackson to participate in the annual parade and enjoy the Dixie National Rodeo.
Citizens are advised to exercise caution as the wagon train travels through the city. Outriders wearing fluorescent vest will be stationed to alert traffic that the convoy is passing through. Local law enforcement officers will also be stationed to assist with traffic.
