A long-standing West Country tradition returns as the Gimlet Father’s Day Rodeo runs for two days of competition and community celebration on June 14 and 15.

It’s a Father’s Day tradition that spans more than 50 years, originally run by longtime organizers Bill and Lorraine Houston before being handed off to a new team three years ago.

“They started a good thing,” said Dallas Mannix, president of the Gimlet Rodeo Board. “It was quite easy to just pick up the reins and carry on. Though it takes six of us now to do what two people used to.”

The rodeo as it stands today, is part of the Central Alberta Rodeo Association (CARA) circuit, and also offers plenty of opportunities for junior athletes and locals.

Gimlet Rodeo Grounds. (94.5 Rewind Radio/Jordan Rein)

The weekend kicks off Saturday, June 14 with the Gimlet Junior Rodeo at 9:00 a.m., followed by the CARA timed-event slack at 3:00 p.m. Events include barrel racing, breakaway roping, and team roping. A steak fry begins at 5:00 p.m. and is followed by a horseshoe tournament.

The main CARA Rodeo performance starts Sunday at noon, featuring a full lineup of events including bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding, tie-down roping, ranch bronc riding, and a variety of youth and ladies events. A beer garden opens at 12:00 p.m., and local event favourites like wild pony races, sheep riding, and wild cow milking will also be on the schedule.

Entry for spectators is $5 per person, with children 6 and under admitted free. Competitor entries close June 4 at 10:00 p.m., with online registration preferred.

“A lot of local people come out when the weather’s good,” says Mannix. “I don’t know if being on Father’s Day is a big draw—but it certainly doesn’t hurt.”

The rodeo grounds are located about 16 km north of Withrow on Range Road 4-3.

Sign on Hwy. 12 directing visitors to the Gimlet Rodeo Grounds. (94.5 Rewind Radio/Jordan Rein)