Bucking broncos on the auction block in Montana

(CNN) -- When it comes to horses, elegance, precision and training are things Miles City, Montana is not in the market for. It's looking for wild, and the wilder, the better.

The town, which was featured in the novel and two television mini-series "Lonesome Dove," is holding its annual Bucking Horse Sale this weekend. Its selection of unruly steeds draws rodeo stock operators who are getting ready for the upcoming rodeo season.

Spectators come, too, to watch cowboys try to ride some of the West's wildest horses. As soon as each rider's eight-second ride is over, the horse is auctioned. Some of the bucking broncos go for $3,000 or more, according to Helen Lockie of the Miles City Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to the Bucking Horse sale, the event features a weekend art show, an antiques show, and a western trade show, where boots, saddles, clothing and silver jewelry are sold.

General admission to the horse auction is $7. Reserved seats are $8 or $10.

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