A busy weekend of rodeo fun is planned as the Sundre Pro Rodeo returns to the West Country.
Organizers say the event will feature world-class rodeo stock and athletes, many of whom are international competitors who will also be appearing at the Ponoka and Calgary Stampede in July.
Over 300 entries from all over the world have signed up for the event, say organizers- the most in the rodeo’s history.
Along with pro rodeo action, organizers say entertainment will be non-stop with appearances from Full Throttle and Roman Riders trick riders.
Junior events are scheduled throughout the weekend as well such as mutton bustin’, wild pony racing, and junior barrel racing, say organizers.
Families can stop at the family fun zone as there will be plenty of fun activities for kids, such as bouncy castles.
Not only is the rodeo a pinnacle annual event, but as Darby-Rae Crouch, committee member for the Sundre Pro Rodeo says, it’s also a boost for the community and economy.
“It is something that this community looks forward to from the time it starts until the next year,” says Crouch. “It means a lot for the economy, we have been told that it helps every small business in town.”
According to the rodeo’s website, around 12,000 spectators attend yearly, constituting around $2 million injected back into the local economy.
Before rodeo action on Saturday, organizers say locals and visitors alike are invited to the rodeo parade on Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. The theme for this year’s parade is ‘Why We Love Rural Alberta – Celebrating Rural Alberta’s Best”.
Organizers say each day will offer something different.
FRIDAY:
- Wear red to support Canada’s troops
- Family night where kids 10 and under get in free
- Crowning of new Miss Rodeo Sundre
- Wild Horse Saloon entertainment featuring Allen Christie and Riley Tubbs
- Fireworks at dusk (fire ban permitting)
Saturday
- Wear pink to promote breast cancer awareness
- Pancake breakfast at 7 a.m. sponsored by Freson Bros.
- Rodeo parade starting at 10 a.m.
- Cowboy Cabaret starting at 8 a.m. with Foxx Worthee
Sunday
- Cowboy church at 10 a.m.
- Raffle draw in the afternoon
Crouch says first time visitors should arrive early as possible, as increasing attendance in recent years has seen traffic extent out onto the road.
For Oilers fans, Crouch says visitors need not miss game 6 of the Stanley Cup finals on June 21, as the game will be on big screens at the Wild Horse Saloon.
Admission for the weekend:
Adult $27
Students 7-18 $22
6 and Under FREE
Weekend Pass:
Adult $70
Student (7-18) $55
6 and Under FREE
The Sundre rodeo grounds are located right in town at 410 2 Ave.
Tickets are available at the gate, or by clicking here.
Comments