CHUCKWAGONS STORIES FROMTHEPAST

The chuck wagon? Think mobile kitchen, pantry, and storage, all on wheels. Run by the cook, or 'Cookie,' it was a cowhand's lifeline, serving up sustenance as they herded cattle across the open plains.

Rewind to 1923, when the Calgary Stampede decided to spice things up a bit. Guy Weadick, the famous founder of the Stampede, hatched a plan to turn the humble chuckwagon into a racing spectacle. He threw out an open invite to ranchers far and wide, stirring up their competitive spirit with a $275 pot of gold at the finish line. And just like a prairie fire, a new tradition was sparked.

It's raw, it's fast, and it's one hell of a wild ride - a true testament to the grit and spirit of the old West. Just like a storm rolling in, when those wagons start racing, you'd best hold onto your hats, folks.