Road to the CFR Heeler Devin Wigemyr
50+ Years Historic Rodeos
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Jesus Garcia Legendary B.C. Cowboy
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WAR PAINT & REGALIA Another quick exchange as the rider leaps off one Thoroughbred adorned with war paint to another at the CIRRA Finals in Lethbridge Photo by Dorothy Lethbridge
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
JUNE/JULY 2018 | VOLUME 22, NO. 1
20 TRAILBLAZERS Jesus Garcia
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This packer and rancher left his home in Mexico at age 13, and ended up inducted in the B.C. Cowboy Hall of Fame
On the Cover
THE WESTERNERS
The painting is from the Powderface Trail in Kananaskis. For more on the rest of the story behind this painting, visit cowboycountrymagazine.com
Shay Keller, Sculpting a Champion A talented artist takes his rodeo arena experience into the studio, and earns two of the most prestigious commissions of his young career
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Jody Skinner: Patience Builds Trust 36" x 26" Oil on Linen
COWBOY WAY
Starting Your Next Great Horse – Part 4 of 6 J.P. Forget walks the young horse through saddling and bitting
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Saddle Fit A comfortable fitting saddle and how to achieve it from three perspectives: a tree maker, a saddle maker and a leading horseman RANCHER’S SPECIAL
What Works For Us Grass management is everything and three outfits in sensitive areas — including the ecologically irreplaceable Cypress Hills, speak on what works for them
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A Moment In Time Canadian Wildlife in Art Our country is internationally famous for our wildlife, and we asked some of the West’s iconic painters, photographers and sculptors for their views
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DEPARTMENTS 6 My Point of View 9 In the Corral 13 Western Art Review 14 Spirit of the West 16 Wheel to Wheel 18 Reflections 45 Pro Rodeo Canada Insider 59 Clownin’ Around 62 Cowboy Poetry 5
MY POINT OF VIEW
ach year we create my favourite issue filled with pages brimming with art. This time we are featuring Canadian artists and wildlife you can find in the West, and given the breadth of talent in this country it was not easy whittling it down to a select few. I’ve said this many times — artists are strange, but in a fabulous way. Like any person who is a master in their field, they are each above-average because of their adherence to a level of excellence that escapes many of us. Add to that their unique view of their world and you get a glimpse of the difficulty but joyous fun of creating this issue. So, from the wilds of the West Coast to the wilds of the Great Plains, here are a few of our favourites. Speaking of above-average — the folks I’ve consulted with on the importance of saddle fit are each renowned experts in their fields. After repeated requests from clients around the world, custom tree maker Rod Nikkel from Pambrun, Sask., has created a DVD series on Western saddle fit; I also asked the opinion of Steve Mason, a talented and prolific saddle maker from High River, and Dustin Gonnet, a young cowboyturned-horse-trainer who has already earned over one million dollars in the saddle. These folks know saddle fit. Have you ever wondered why there are so many Spanish street names in
Merritt, B.C.? Our Trailblazer about a man named Jesus (hay SOOS) Garcia has helped solve the mystery. Between information that I gleaned from the B.C. Cowboy Hall of Fame and one of Garcia`s relatives (who just happens to work at the Nicola Valley Museum & Archives in Merritt), I put together a biography about a man we all would have loved to meet. Imagine the stories he could have told! So this issue urges you to Go Wild. Step out of your comfort zone, and look at your world with a fresh perspective through the lens of a camera or the flick of a paintbrush. Fuel your passion and work at becoming an expert in something, and visit with the men and women who broke the trails you now ride — I guarantee you’ll hear some hairraising adventures from this untamed land we call Canadian Cowboy Country.
— Terri Mason, Editor
Subscriber Tip Your mailing label on the magazine will tell you when your subscription expires. Right above your name is an issue date, which is the final issue of your subscription.
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XXX XXXXXX JUN/JUL’19 JOE SMITH RR 1 EDMONTON, AB T6B 2L5
@CowboyCntryMag
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO COURTESY TERRI MASON
E
Go Wild !
June/July 2018 Vol. 22, No. 1 Editor Terri Mason terri@cowboycountrymagazine.com Copy Editor Carmen D. Hrynchuk carmen@cowboycountrymagazine.com Art Director Adam Still adam@cowboycountrymagazine.com Graphic Designers Zuzana Benesova, zuzana@cowboycountrymagazine.com Erin Murphy, ads@cowboycountrymagazine.com
When it takes generations to build a ranch, years to raise a family and even months to start a new horse, what you want is some
instant gratification!
Publisher Rob Tanner rob@cowboycountrymagazine.com Sales Manager Kristine Wickheim kristine@cowboycountrymagazine.com Traffic Coordinator Cheryl Lindquist traffic@cowboycountrymagazine.com Subscription/Circulation Marie Tanner frontdesk@tanneryoung.com Accounting Administrator Catherine Staszkiewicz admin@tanneryoung.com Customer Relations Manager Marie Tanner marie@tanneryoung.com Columnists Tim Ellis, Hugh McLennan, Billy Melville, Bryn Thiessen Contributors J.P. Forget, Dustin Gonnet, Dorothy Lethbridge, Steve Mason, Rod and Denise Nikkel, Phyllis Rathwell Contributing Artists/Photographers Jon Bowie, Mike Copeman, Phil Doyle, Kim Hunter, Kerrie Kusler, Gena LaCoste, Denis Mayer Jr, Tara McKenzie, Nathalie Parenteau, Marlene Pegg, Jody Skinner, Neil Swanson, Vance Theoret, Liz Twan Tanner Young Publishing Group #1, 9301–50 Street, Edmonton AB T6B 2L5 Tel: 780-465-3362 Fax 780-448-0424 Toll Free: 1-800-943-7336 Website: cowboycountrymagazine.com E-mail: askus @ cowboycountrymagazine.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Call Marie at 1-800-943-7336 1 Year: $21.43 + tax | 2 Years: $35.71 + tax | 3 Years: $46.45 + tax Canadian Cowboy Country magazine is published six times per year by Tanner Young Publishing Group PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40070720 ISSN 1701-1132 Please return undeliverable addresses to: Canadian Cowboy Country magazine #1, 9301–50 Street, Edmonton AB T6B 2L5 FREELANCE POLICY Canadian Cowboy Country welcomes freelance contributions, but will not be held responsible for unsolicited text or photographs. Direct all freelance enquiries to: freelance@cowboycountrymagazine.com PRIVACY POLICY At Tanner Young Publishing Group, we value your privacy. For our complete privacy policy go to tanneryoung.com/ privacy.html or call us at 1-800-943-7336 Canadian Cowboy Country makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. This magazine is a proud member of the Alberta Magazine Publishers Association, and Magazines Canada, abiding by the standards of the Canadian Society of Magazine Editors. Visit albertamagazines.com
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CONTRIBUTORS
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
More Wilf 1
2
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1 Dorothy Lethbridge
Dear Folks, I received my copy of your magazine and really enjoy all the stories and info. I saw a clip [Letter to the Editor] in this issue about Wilf Carter, my favourite singer of all time. I am now 88 years of age and I well remember when I was about 6 years of age I used to get up every morning at 6 o’clock and listen to our battery radio. There was a 15 minute program with Wilf Carter until 6:15 on Calgary radio. Then there was another 15 minute program on another station with Wilf Carter. After that was over it was chore time. I would love to get the full story that was in that article. I didn’t get that issue because my subscription had run out. I would be very glad if I could get it — would be willing to pay costs. Thank you. I would also like to renew the magazine for 1 year. Check is enclosed. —Thomas J. Kosolofski, Kindersley, Sask. Dear Mr. Kosolofski, Thank you for your interesting letter. I hope you enjoy your new subscription, and the back issue featuring Wilf Carter as a Trailblazer. — Editor
War Paint & Regalia, Canadian Indian Relay Racing, page 36 Dorothy Lethbridge is a photographer, journalist and promoter including for her husband, Victor’s, TatankaWorkshops.com. They enjoy their southern Alberta prairie farm with its small herd of cows and scenic river landscapes.
2 Dianne Finstad Diane Skocdopole, “Super” Sonic, page 54 Dianne Finstad is a multi-award-winning broadcaster, writer and journalist with over 30 years of getting the story. Ranch-raised near Manyberries, Alta., she lives near Red Deer, Alta.
Carrying On I have been buying this magazine for my husband, Joe Firman, for years as he really enjoyed it! However, Joe passed away last March (2017), but I would like to continue this subscription for me. When he was in hospital, I would read to him many stories from it, and he loved it! Please find enclosed my subscription. Thank you very much. —Carol Johnston, Vernon, B.C.
3 J.P. Forget Starting Your Next Great Horse, Part 4, page 35 J.P. Forget of Sundre, Alta., is an internationally accomplished trainer, showman and an award-winning professional instructor and coach. He is the author of four books on horsemanship and starting young horses. jpforget.com
4 Phyllis Rathwell Shay Keller, Sculpting a Champion, page 22 Retired school marm, retired rancher and still-active cowboy poet Phyllis Rathwell and her awesome hubby Larry Miller make their home at Elkwater, Alta. From their aptly named “2 Lazy 2 Ranch” home, they pretty much do what they darn well please... spoil grandkids, spout poetry and travel some.
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Mystery Lock Has anyone seen this style of lock before? It was found in a barn in the Edmonton area, and the owner is interested in any information about it. Contact the editor at terri@ cowboycountrymagazine.com
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
IN THE CORRAL NEWS, VIEWS & HAPPENINGS FROM ACROSS THE CANADIAN WEST
PHOTO BY SHAUN ROBINSON, CALGARY STAMPEDE
Canvas Auction Huge Success
If the 2018 Calgary Stampede GMC Rangeland Derby Chuckwagon Canvas Auction is a barometer for the economy in Western Canada, it looks like things are on the rebound. The 2018 Calgary Stampede Chuckwagon Canvas Auction was a tremendous success with the fifthhighest total in the 40-year history of the event, bringing in over $3.2 million. Twelve drivers eclipsed the $100,000.00 mark.
Defending GMC Rangeland Derby Champion Kurt Bensmiller received the high bid of $130,000. The median bid on all 36 wagons was $89,000, up $22,750 from 2017. Thirty-six wagons compete in the Calgary Stampede’s signature event, the Rangeland Derby. The Stampede says three sets of fathers and sons and three pairs of brothers are to compete at the chuckwagon races this year (and Lord only knows how many cousins).
A trusted indicator of the Alberta economy are the numbers reached at the Stampede tarp auction
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IN THE CORRAL EMPTY SADDLES
Competing at Calgary The Calgary Stampede officially revealed the names of the 120 rodeo superstars who have been invited to compete at Stampede 2018, July 6–15. Among them are 26 Canadians. All six 2017 Calgary Stampede champions, including the lone Canadian, saddle bronc champion Zeke Thurston of Big Valley, Alta., will return in 2018 to defend their titles at the world’s largest outdoor rodeo. They will be joined by the top competitors from the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association, Women’s Professional Rodeo Association, Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and Professional Bull Riders. Canadian rodeo fans will be excited to see the return of veterans such as bull rider Scott Schiffner, a Canadian and Stampede Champion and brothers Curtis and Cody Cassidy of Donalda, Alta., plus talented young riders such as Jake Vold, Clay Elliott, Layton Green and Zane Lambert. In Ladies Barrel Racing, 2017 Canadian Champion Carman Pozzobon of B.C. joins Diane Skocdopole of Big Valley, Alta., as the lone Canadians in the group of 20 skilled horsewomen. “It’s great to see so much homegrown talent,” says Justin Denis, Calgary Stampede Rodeo committee chair, adding, “We call it the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth for a reason. You will truly see the best in the world compete in Calgary over 10 days this July.” Not included on this list are the Novice Saddle Bronc, Bareback and Steer Riding competitors.
Elizabeth Ebert 1925–2018
Retired rancher and cowboy poet from Thunderhawk, South Dakota, Elizabeth was a featured poet on every stage she graced, including many in Canada. A mentor to many and a pal to all, she began her poetry career at age 65 on a bet and rapidly became known to many as the Queen of Cowboy Poetry.
Here’s the list of the professional Canadian rodeo competitors invited to compete: Saddle Bronc Riding Justin Berg, Camrose, Alta. Clay Elliott, Nanton, Alta. Sam Kelts, Millarville, Alta. Layton Green, Meeting Creek, Alta. Zeke Thurston, Big Valley, Alta. Bareback Riding Cole Goodine, Carbon, Alta. Orin Larsen, Inglis, Man. Clint Laye, Cadogan, Alta. Jake Vold, Airdrie, Alta. Ladies Barrel Racing Carman Pozzobon, Aldergrove, B.C. Diane Skocdopole, Big Valley, Alta.
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Steer Wrestling Curtis Cassidy, Donalda, Alta. Cody Cassidy, Donalda, Alta. Scott Guenthner, Provost, Alta. Brendan Laye, Consort, Alta. Tanner Milan, Cochrane, Alta. Straws Milan, Cochrane, Alta. Tie-Down Roping Logan Bird, Nanton, Alta. Al Bouchard, Scandia, Alta. Morgan Grant, Didsbury, Alta. Kyle Lucas, Carstairs, Alta. Riley Warren, Stettler, Alta. Bull Riding Todd Chotowetz, Major, Sask. Jordan Hansen, Calgary, Alta. Zane Lambert, Ponoka, Alta. Scott Schiffner, Strathmore, Alta.
B.C. Cowboy Heritage Congratulations to all the participants, fans, artists and musicians for the success of the 22nd Annual Kamloops Cowboy Festival. A highlight of the event is the announcement of the inductees into the B.C. Cowboy Hall of Fame, located in Williams Lake, B.C. Congratulations to the 2018 inductees including four Working Cowboy inductees: Lois Tucker Daling, David Maurice, Pat Jasper, Mike Jasper; Ranching Pioneer Ken Fawcett, Competitor Charlie Brous, and under the Ranch Family category, the Joe Schuk Family. Congratulations to Williams Lake, B.C., saddle maker Mark Denny, the recipient of the 2018 Joe Marten Heritage Award. Mark your calendar: the next Kamloops Cowboy Festival will be March 14–17, 2019.
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTOS COURTESY CALGARY STAMPEDE / MIKE COPEMAN; EBERT FAMILY
2017 marked the third time in a row that Zeke Thurston of Big Valley, Alta., earned the Calgary Stampede Saddle Bronc Championship. He is invited back to go for the record.
EMPTY SADDLES
Cowboy and a bay horse in front of a log cabin, 1880
Bev Munro 1929–2018
PHOTOS COURTESY PROVINCIAL ARCHIVES OF ALBERTA/ERNEST BROWN; CANADIAN COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOC.; BY WILDWOOD IMAGERY/CHANTELLE BOWMAN
Former CFCW 840 Radio morning man and country music legend Bev Munro passed away at the age of 89. Bev is the only Canadian DJ to be named Mr D.J. USA (1959). The songwriter earned a recording contract with Capitol Records, and he also wrote hits for a number of artists. He was a DJ with CFCW for 30 years until his retirement in 1993. Bev was inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame in 2002.
Provincial Archives of Alberta at 50
For more than 50 years, people have turned to the Provincial Archives of Alberta (PAA) for facts and research, including information about their family tree. Located in Edmonton, Alta., the PAA’s vaults hold millions of documented historical facts, photos, films and other records about Alberta’s past, including records from government, individual people and organizations — including homestead records. Join the PAA in celebrating its 50th anniversary and read some fascinating, fun and sometimes quirky history of Alberta and its residents. Visit the PAA in person, online or through Facebook and Twitter! For further information visit provincialarchives.alberta.ca
College Champs
Canadian College Finals Rodeo Champions pose with their freshly-won buckles following the final round of competition at the Lakeland College Equine Centre. Top row from left: Brittainy Smith, Karlene Weltz, Shyla Fuchs, Cheyenne Klepper. Bottom row: JB Moen, Mason Helmeczi, Kole Ashbacher, Ty Livingstone, Brett Knapp, Kadon Knapp and Dylan Knapp.
cowboycountrymagazine.com
The Lakeland College Rustlers hosted the Canadian Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (CIRA) Finals at Vermilion’s Equine Centre in late March. The event attracted the top 110 rodeo athletes from Manitoba to British Columbia for competition in team roping, steer wrestling, goat tying, bareback riding, saddle bronc, bull riding, tie-down roping, breakaway roping, pole bending and barrel racing. “In the CFR (Canadian Finals Rodeo) last year, we had three guys from our association win there,” said Braiden Bach, president of the CIRA. “As well in the past there have always been a couple of contenders for pro rodeo associations winning their finals. So, it’s always neat to watch the cowboys and cowgirls grow as competitors.” The equine partners were also feted, and their riders were recognized for having the top horses of the season. Congratulations to Natalie Bevans, awarded all-around female; Ty Livingstone, all-around male; Cailey Schatz, pole bending; Cheyenne Klepper, barrel racing; Emily Pugsley, goat tying; Brittainy Smith, breakaway roping; Quinton Van Straten, tie-down roping and steer wrestling; Dylan Knapp, heeler team roping; and Cole Schmidt, header team roping.
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IN THE CORRAL EMPTY SADDLES Ocho Rios
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20
is Canadian Cowboy?
amaica – ,J
Where in the World –
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
1939–2018
Successful businessman Dave Robson of Calgary, Alta., recipient of many honours including an Honorary Degree “Doctor of Laws” from the University of Calgary, was well-known for his substantial contributions to the western horse industry. He was inducted into the CCHA, NCHA and Canadian Supreme halls of fame and received a Distinguished Service Award from the Horse Industry Assoc., of Alberta. Dave also contributed heavily to the Haskayne School of Business Robson Professorship, the Nutrien Western Event Centre at Stampede Park and the University of Calgary’s Robson DNA Science Centre which facilitates genetic research into the root causes of cancer.
Tyler Kronk ite
PBR Global Cup Sydney
The second leg of PBR’s inaugural Global Cup is set to take over Sydney, Australia June 9–10, and Team Canada coach Aaron Roy has finalized the roster of seven Canucks set to represent the Maple Leaf. Preparing to head Down Under is Dakota Buttar, Jordan Hansen, Brock Radford, Tanner Byrne, Zane Lambert, Lonnie West, Jared Parsonage and alternate Justin Lloyd. “It’s a huge honour to be representing Canada,” said Parsonage. “A format to ride as a team is going to be really exciting. It’s going to be a lot of fun to pull for your buddies the whole time and try to put together big scores against all the other countries on one of the world’s biggest
in Jamaica
stages in front of a lot of people. It’s a pretty huge honour and I`m looking forward to it.” At the first-ever Global Cup, Canada finished third on home soil in Edmonton last November, going 10-for-22. Led by West, who went 2-for-3, the nation fell 188.25 points and two qualified rides short of defending their home dirt, despite the qualified rides added by Lambert, Radford and Byrne. All four riders will be returning to Australia. One of the elements that excites Parsonage, a fifth year PBR rider, is the rarely-seen team format in bull riding. “It adds a little bit different aspect to bull riding for the fans,” said Parsonage. “It’s fun as a rider to have the opportunity to ride on a team. You’re cheering for your buddies, trying to put together as many scores as you can and just get as many points as possible. It’s just a whole different way of doing it, and it’s a lot of fun.”
The PBR Global Cup trophy is made up of five individual horns. Each horn is designed to reflect the competing nations’ colours and designed to hold some sacred soil from each country. Symbolic opening ceremonies feature the riders from the host country depositing the soil from their piece in the arena to signify the start of competition. Once a team possesses all five horns, that trophy is fused together to forever signify that country’s world dominance and a new trophy is created.
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTOS COURTESY TYLER KRONKITE; COURTESY ROBSON FAMILY; PBR GLOBAL CUP
Dave Bowlby Robson
Ocho Rios (Spanish for eight rivers) is a town on the north coast of Jamaica. Once a sleepy fishing village and now a thriving tourism destination, the name is possibly a British corruption of the original Spanish name “Las Chorreras” (the waterfalls), a name given to the village because of the nearby Dunn’s River Falls. Ocho Rios is perhaps most notable for its use in Dr. No, the very first James Bond film, which was released in 1962. In 2016, a local resort just outside of Ocho Rios was featured on a reality TV show, The Bachelor. The island attracts well over four million tourists a year, including auctioneer and sale barn manager, Tyler Kronkite of Maple Creek, Sask.
WESTERN ART REVIEW | TERRI MASON PORCH READS
Hand-Forged Talent
Alex Janvier, Untitled, 1986, National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa (42867) © Alex Janvier.
Alex Janvier: Modern Indigenous Master Jun 16 – Sep 9 This major retrospective, organized by the National Gallery of Canada, celebrates Alex Janvier’s lifetime of creativity, knowledge and perspective, gained Cypress Hills through his love of the land, art and Dene Plein Air | July 21 culture. The exhibition features more than Enjoy a one-day show of the Cypress Hills painted plein air 100 remarkable paintings and drawings, in the tradition of the Canadian including well-known masterpieces as Group of Seven, interpreted well as works that have never been on by various artists. public display. Maple Creek, Sask. brokenspokeartgallery.com Glenbow Museum, Calgary, Alta. glenbow.org
Cutting-edge blacksmith Robert Thomas has created a thoroughly modern book that not only cements the blacksmith’s role in human history, but also his reverence for the art, which elevates the smithy to near-epic heights — and deservedly so. It literally starts at the beginning — what is metal, to the importance of the blacksmith through the ages, through the fundamental tools, into the descriptive and wellphotographed techniques, the well-presented principles of design and finally, projects to refine your skills. This cannot be stated enough: this book is gorgeous. Thomas found a fantastic photographer (Sully Sullivan) who has taken a hot, sweaty, grimy and loud craft and made it look beautiful. Even if you never light a forge, this gorgeous book will fire an appreciation for those who do.
UPCOMING GALLERY SHOWS Western Art Showcase July 6–15 The Western Art at the Calgary Stampede is the premiere show of juried Western art in Canada. Calgary Stampede, Calgary, Alta. westernshowcase.com
Defying Convention
Women Artists in Canada, 1900–1960 May 5 – Sep 3
This exhibition features work by groundbreaking women artists of the Modernist period in Canada. Winnipeg Art Gallery, Winnipeg, Man. wag.ca
cowboycountrymagazine.com
Li Salay
Canadian Métis Artists May 25 – Sep 9 Li Salay (Michif for “the sun”) is a new exhibition focused on the work of Métis artists from across Canada. Art Gallery of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta. aga.com
The Art & Craft of the Blacksmith: Techniques and Inspiration for the Modern Smith by Robert Thomas. Paperback, 82 pages. Available through amazon.com
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SPIRIT OF THE WEST | HUGH MCLENNAN
were a reminder of the incredible richness of this culture. It goes far beyond the economics of the cattle industry and the business side of ranching. It is celebrated in the time-honoured skills of the artisans, silversmiths, leather workers, artists, photographers, singers, songwriters and poets. As I looked out at the packed house in the convention centre, it was wonderful to see so many folks who My live kidney donor, Louis “the Big Rig” love this way of life, some of McIvor joined us onstage at the Kamloops them still actively doing it, Cowboy Festival. That’s me with little brother Jim in the background others retired but still loving the culture, and a lot of folks who have never experienced it hands-on. Every note of every great song — whether it was an old western classic or brand-new composition, was played and sung live without pre-recorded tracks. As Billie and I shared our thoughts on the wonderful time we had, it became obvious: these festivals and gatherings play a huge role in preserving our beloved western s the sun rims over the hills to the east, dust rises as the culture and traditions. The gatherings at Willow Creek, Maple horses come thundering in from the pasture. I savour Creek, Pincher Creek, Stony Plain, The the first morning cup of cowboy coffee as songbirds greet Trail’s End at High River, Kamloops Cowboy Festival and many others depend on supanother day that will be spent on a good horse working with port from sponsors and folks who attend. cattle on native rangeland. There’s a lot of competition for entertainment dollars, but the way I see it, there is no A cowboy song rolls easily through my I could feel the stares as we manoeuvred better value for the price than a weekend at mind as Stanley picks up a long trot. The thought busy streets and crowded media cowboy gathering or festival. c days like this make the adversity, heartcal clinics. I think they thought we were break and wrecks of ranching life special. from another planet. I guess they don’t see Cattle rancher and horse trainer Hugh McLennan and his wife, Billie, run their cattle in the beautiful These images were what I pictured durmany old cowboys out there. After some rangeland outside of Kamloops, B.C. Hugh is the ing the two months Billie and I spent in conversations it seems most folks in that host of the multi-award-winning weekly radio Vancouver last winter. With all due respect big city have no idea that our proud way of program, Spirit of the West, heard across Canada and the U.S. to the west coast city’s ocean, mountains, life exists. and millions of people, it was its cultural A few weeks after getting home, we were diversity, breakneck pace, nightly shootings immersed in the rich traditions of western and overdose tragedies that were always life at the 43rd annual Kamloops Cowboy headline news. We felt like we were on a Festival. The crowds were great, and the different planet. entertainment, trade show and art displays
Same Planet, Different Worlds
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO BY JERRY STAINER
A
S P E CIAL ADVE RTO RIAL
Relax & Recharge in Drayton Valley Drayton Valley, lost in the drive-by hustle to Jasper and the Rockies, is an inspiring getaway and only 90 minutes from downtown Edmonton. With much of the natural beauty of its bigger brothers to the West, as well as affordable accommodations and services, Drayton Valley/Brazeau County is the ideal spot for that fast weekend getaway or much needed break from the hustle and pressure of the city. Slow down and take the short drive to Drayton Valley, where the natural attractions allow for a relaxed and affordable visit. The whole family will enjoy the scenic farmlands and rolling hills and valleys that lead to Brazeau County. Take the kids to hike, run, or mountain bike the many kilometres of well-maintained trails of Eagle Point/Blue Rapids Provincial Park. Or simply relax and
cowboycountrymagazine.com
enjoy the peaceful setting among Mother Nature’s pallet of exploding colours! Discover our member hotels at dvhta.ca, where you can rest easy at the end of the day with outstanding accommodation and service. The diverse eateries in the area offer budget-friendly, family-friendly, and finedining options. Escape the bright lights of the major metro centres to the countryside, where just a five-minute drive presents a cascade of stars. It’s a different world in the Valley, giving you the chance to slow down, recharge, and enjoy. Join us for the Midway Weekend and events June 9, 2018.
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WHEEL TO WHEEL | BILLY MELVILLE
Rule Maker
W
hen a sport decides to alter its rules, in most cases the intention is to clear up any confusion, protect the participants, or even protect the integrity of the game. But every once in a while rules are put in place because one player is just too dominant. Once upon a time, chuckwagon drivers were allowed to drive more than one chuckwagon at the Calgary Stampede; there was no rule against it. Cowboys who had gained the reputation of being top rate skinners were in demand by chuckwagon owners who did not pilot their own outfits. Thus, these skilled reinsmen found themselves driving more than one outfit. Ronnie Glass was one such cowboy. Glass, who had shown an extraordinary ability to drive horses at an early age, drove at Calgary’s Rangeland Derby for the first time in 1931 at the age of 15 as 16
a replacement driver for Charley “Dad” Moore. Glass went on to win his first Calgary championship in 1941 driving for Charlie Lundseth, added a second Calgary championship in 1946 driving for Johnnie Phelan and established himself as both a master horseman and quintessential chuckwagon driver in the process. In 1947, Glass found himself handling the lines for three chuckwagon outfits at the Calgary Stampede — one for J.S. Armstrong, one for Allan O’Bray and one for defending champion Johnnie Phelan. Over the first five nights of the six-night competition, Glass took the top time overall every night with one of the three outfits, and most nights he won all three heats that he competed in. With one run to go, Glass sat first overall with the O’Bray outfit, second overall with the Phelan outfit and was nearly five seconds clear of his nearest competitors. On the final night the top four wagons were hooked together in the same heat, and with Glass qualifying two wagons in the top four, Theo Thage handled the O’Bray outfit while Glass continued to drive the Phelan outfit. Glass would go on to win the 1947 Calgary Stampede for the second
consecutive year with the Phelan outfit, with the O’Bray outfit placing third overall and the Armstrong outfit placing eighth overall. To this day it might be the greatest performance by any single chuckwagon driver in the history of the game. His dominance of the 1947 races, combined with some grumbling from some of the other drivers, prompted the Calgary Stampede to add a rule starting in 1948 limiting an individual to driving only one chuckwagon outfit at the Rangeland Derby. Ironically, Glass was unable to compete at the 1948 Stampede, as he was travelling with one of Cliff Claggett’s legendary barnstorming tours in Eastern Canada. When he returned in 1949, he captured his fourth career Calgary championship with the Phelan outfit from Red Deer. The “Ronnie Glass Rule” was rescinded in 1958 but took effect again in 1979 as a way to accommodate more chuckwagon drivers at the GMC Rangeland Derby. C Billy Melville is an author, noted historian and chuckwagon colour commentator on Rural Radio (SiriusXM Ch 147) and CBC Sports. He is the grandson of Orville Strandquist.
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO COURTESY BILLY MELVILLE ARCHIVES
Ronnie Glass
The final race of the 1947 Calgary Stampede and Ronnie Glass had qualified two wagons into the top four. Thage drove for Glass in the O’Bray wagon (checkerboard wagon, left). Glass driving defending champion Johnnie Phelan`s wagon (right).
Favourite Spaces Once again we are asking readers of Canadian Cowboy Country to send us a high-resolution photograph (or two or ten) of their favourite Western spaces on their home place. Your favourite place can be a wonderfully cozy corner nook inside your home, your super-organized tack room or a photograph of a sun-dappled swing in the corner of your garden. Please include your name and contact information and send your high-resolution images to the Editor, Terri Mason, at terri@cowboycountrymagazine.com.
Terri Mason Editor High Resolution — What’s That? We can only publish the best quality photography — and to help you send us your best, visit our website where we explain the high resolution settings on your camera! Visit cowboycountrymagazine.com
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PHOTO COURTESY STOCK.ADOBE.COM/ S. LEMYRE
REFLECTIONS | BRYN THIESSEN
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
Quirks & Quotes Bonny once asked me how I decided what to do. “If it helps people, I’ll probably choose it,” I said. “That doesn’t narrow it down too much,” she replied. “Oh yes it does, if it just helps me I’m less likely to do it.” This is just one of the quirks/quotes I’ve been known to utter. Some others are: “I don’t have a real job. I’d rather do a poor job of several things instead of just one.” Or: “I don’t choose based on profit or loss, I head straight to loss.” Some others are: “I live within my mind because I like the wide-open spaces,” and “I’m too crazy to end up in the rubber room.” One of my favourites is: “If you can keep your head when everyone else is losing theirs, you’re probably holding the axe.” There’s humour and truth in all those quotes, but there’s also a cost — and when the note comes due, it’s pretty dark. Let me take you down the trail that led to these thoughts. As most of the country experienced, the winter back here was as warm and welcome as a politician-turned-dentist. I made decisions for the winter based on available resources — from feed supplies to wintering sites and water availability. I was prepared for an average-to-moderately-severe winter. I adjusted plans as the snow piled and water froze over. Add to that was my inability to bring out the best from anything mechanical. I spent half the time with the feed truck or bale deck in some source of limp mode. Combined with the extremely limited area I
could access to feed meant the time spent in my mind became a little more crowded. Add to this my choices based on who it helps and not being too concerned with profit. It turned out I did a poor job of too many things. And it came at a cost. It turned out I wasn’t holding the axe, and I was in danger of the rubber room. As I drifted toward the darkness, there were points of light that carried me forward. Folks — both those close and those with little connection — came forward and offered assistance. Their actions live out Paul’s words in Galatians 6:2 — “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (NIV) Even as I write these words I’m listening to the news of the Humboldt Broncos tragedy of so many young hockey players killed in a highway crash. In the coming days, the players’ stories will come forward, and folks will gather and “bear each other’s burdens.” All of this came just days after we remembered the greatest “bearing of burdens” by Christ, who hung on the cross. By the time you’re reading these words the grass should have greened up, and folks will be gathering and bearing burden’s — some as welcome as a neighbour’s branding. I’ll leave you with the words I uttered to those who asked what they could do to help. “Keep praying, go out and have a good day — and thank God you’re a part of Canadian Cowboy Country. c
Bryn Thiessen is a rancher, poet, cowboy and preacher at Cowboy Trail Church in Cochrane. Bryn and his wife Bonny market grass-fattened beef from their Helmer Creek Ranch southwest of Sundre, Alta.
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TRAILBLAZERS
PEOPLE WHO SHAPED THE WEST
Jesus Garcia Packer, Rancher & Hall of Fame By TERRI MASON
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Born in Hermosillo in the state of Sonora, Mexico in 1832, Jesus Garcia left his home at 13 to pursue his fortune in California, which at the time was still part of the Republic of Mexico. On arrival, he met up with Blais Leon, and the two soon developed a lifelong friendship. Garcia quickly found work as a packer in charge of a 20-mule outfit that hauled ore from a silver mine to a smelter, and when volume increased, he hired Leon as his helper. They worked together in California for the next four years before whispers of gold in the north encouraged them to move on. Garcia and Leon, as well as a number of other Spanish-speaking men, including the legendary Cataline, helped form the transportation system that made the gold rush possible. On arrival in Yale, B.C., Garcia was hired by Raphael Carranzo to work in his packing outfit. Soon Garcia was making packing trips through the Cariboo. After two years, Garcia bought half the pack train from Carranzo and went into business for himself. Each fall, he and other packers in the area brought their pack trains into the Nicola Valley for the winter in the area that is now known as Hamilton Hill.
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Garcia, along with compatriots Raphael Carranzo, Antonio Godey, Pancho Guiterrez, Pedro Ateago, Joseph Castillou, Blais Leon and Jesus Silva were among the first Spanish-speaking people who spent their winters pasturing their pack animals in the Nicola Valley. To survive the harsh winter conditions, they were often forced to build their huts partially underground. While they were afforded the right of citizenship, the Spanish-speaking population was considered different by the white majority. Unlike the native population, they were given the right to vote. However, for census purposes, they were counted within a different racial bracket — grouped separately from whites, Asians and Natives. Regardless of any discrimination he may have faced, Garcia was soon to become one of the most prominent and respected packers, then ranchers in the area. Garcia married a local Nlaka’pamux First Nation woman, Kroventko, daughter of Humsinna, a chief
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTOS COURTESY NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM (NVM)
esus Garcia was part of the first wave of Spanish-speaking immigrants to travel from the California gold fields to the gravel bars of the Fraser River during the early 1860s.
at Spuzzum. After marrying Garcia she became known by her English name — Mary. By 1871, Garcia had decided to settle in the Nicola Valley, building a cabin near the old powerhouse (May Street) by Coldwater River. After selling his packing outfit in Yale, Garcia sent for his wife, Mary Kroventko Garcia, and children. Son Frank Garcia, five or six at the time, recalled the move: “Father decided to stay in the Nicola Valley. He sold his pack train and from Yale, he brought his family. It took us three days on the trip to Nicomen (Thompson’s Siding); Mother carrying our youngest sister in her arms on horseback. From Nicomen, we devotion to the church, Garcia donated an acre lot to rode over the mountains and arrived at a point known Father LeJeune in 1909. (The lot is where the senior as Dot. We camped there with a man named Johnny citizens hall rests today, a half a block away from busy DuVal. Next day we arrived where Merritt now stands.” Garcia Street.) With the death of Leon in 1877, Garcia got back into In addition to cattle, Garcia also tried his luck packing after buying his deceased friend’s cattle and with coal. He was involved in several coal deals over a pack train at a public auction. He returned to packing 20-year period, ending when he sold his rights to the during the summers for two years before Diamond Vale Coal Company in 1905. giving it up for a final time to devote his After suffering many years of rheumaefforts to ranching. tism and arthritis, Garcia died in 1916 and OPPOSITE PAGE: Mourners at During the late 1880s and early 1890s, was buried in the Coldwater Cemetery. He Alex Coutlee’s Garcia built a large family home near the left an estate estimated at $100,000 that funeral, Jesus present site of the River Ranch buildings. included several thousand acres of land that Garcia is fourth from left, Records state that it “was a busy place… stretched from Aspen Grove to Mamit Lake. directly behind Jesus and his wife Mary often played host to The estate provided each of his children the seated large groups of grandchildren.” with a source of income for many years. gentleman In 1907, the Garcia home was destroyed Jesus Garcia was survived by his wife, RIGHT: by fire but was quickly rebuilt. “A mansion Mary, who later died in 1932 and is buried Joe Lauder by standards of that time,” the Garcia home alongside her husband on the Coldwater and his sister, stood until 1964 when it was torn down Reserve. There were 14 children born Isabel Lauder by Garthwaite, of the Rey Creek Ranch, the to them, five of whom were alive when Stafford, pose on the sweeping owners of the original Garcia pre-emption Garcia died: Mary, Eleanor, Sarah, Frank verandah of the at that time (pre-emption was a method and Johnny. Jesus Garcia of acquiring provincial Crown land by Many descendants of Jesus and Mary house; River Ranch, ca.1920s. claiming it for settlement and agricultural still live in the Merritt area. Image donated purposes). In 2011, Jesus Garcia was inducted into to NVM by Barb A staunch Catholic, remembered by the B.C. Cowboy Hall of Fame. c Lauder Sayles. Father LeJeune in 1923 as “the father of Catholicism in the Valley” because of his
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THE WESTERNERS
Shay Keller Sculpting a Champion By PHYLLIS RATHWELL
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Shay is, first and foremost, a cowboy. Ranch-raised in the Killdeer district near Rockglen in south-central Saskatchewan, the young artist lives for rodeo. He has a natural talent for roping and currently holds professional rodeo cards and competes on both sides of the border in CPRA and PRCA sanctioned rodeos, and this tiedown roper has won more buckles, saddles and accolades than you can shake a loop at. They include championships in the Manitoba Rodeo Cowboys Assoc., in ’08 and ’09, qualifying for the 2011 National College Finals Rodeo, declared the Harmon Valley Rodeo champ 2013, was a semi-finalist for the 2016 RFD-TV’s The American and has
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Entitled Canadian Champion, this bronze with its distinctive red maple leaf will be presented by the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame to all inductees for 2016–2020. Shay entrusts his bronzing to Bob Burkhart’s foundry in Bozeman, Montana.
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO BY TERRI MASON
hay Keller is still in his 20s, and already the southern Saskatchewan bronze sculpture artist has hit the big time. His knowledge of anatomy, musculature and intuitive placement of each detail has elevated this young artist to the world stage as an up-and-coming artist extraordinaire — and has already earned him coveted bronze commissions with the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame and the Calgary Stampede.
PHOTOS BY KERRIE KUSLER
“While still in high school, Shay began producing pencil sketches and scratch art, showing at Agribition and doing pencil sketch commissions.”
qualified for the CCA Finals six times. Rodeo may be his first love, but it has led to even more than he could have imagined. In 2005, not only was Shay a contestant at the National High School Rodeo, but he had entered and won their art contest, which garnered him a scholarship and the front cover of the NHSR program. This was followed by winning the Student Art Contest to commemorate the grand opening of the Shurniak Art Gallery in Assiniboia, Sask. Bill Shurniak, gallery owner and world-travelling art connoisseur, was so interested in the young artist that he invited Shay to become the first artist to hold a solo art show at the gallery. While still in high school, Shay began producing pencil sketches and scratch art, showing at Agribition (where he met his hero, Bernie Brown) and doing pencil sketch commissions. After high school, Shay accepted a scholarship to Miles City,
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then to Montana State at Bozeman. It was there that he met his future wife and biggest booster, Robbi Nace, a fellow student and rodeo enthusiast. After Shay and Robbi moved back to Saskatchewan, Shay began to sculpt. His bronze Canadian Champion was chosen by the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame to be presented to all inductees for 2016–2020. In October, 2017 two of his sculptures, All in the Reflexes (tie-down roper) and Sliding Into Position (steer wrestler) was chosen by the Calgary Stampede as championship trophies from 2018–2022 for these two events. This young cowboy is one to watch, for his talent is obvious and his ‘eye’ is sure! To view more of Shay’s works, visit Shay Keller Cowboy Artist on Facebook. c
ABOVE LEFT: Shay and his clay pre-cast winning entry for the steer wrestling bronze competition ABOVE RIGHT: Shay and his All Around Cowgirl wife, Robbi Nace, with some of their rodeo spoils
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or call 1.800.943.7336
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTOS COURTESY LAMMLE’S WESTERN WEAR & TACK
Back by Popular Demand!
COWBOY WAY
PART 4 OF SIX
HORSE TRAINING
Starting Your Next Great Horse Part 4: Saddling and Bitting BY J.P. FORGET
Since we have been diligent in observing our filly’s responses, and have rewarded the small changes all through the desensitizing, building trust, and responseand-respect stages of groundwork, she is now ready for saddling and bitting.
TOP: Accepting the saddle must be the filly’s idea. For this reason it is important to saddle up while she stands freely in the pen.
PHOTOS COURTESY J.P FORGET/TARA MCKENZIE
Saddling Hold the filly in hand with a loose lead rope, in the middle of the pen. Remember, tying or hobbling the filly means she stands there because it is your idea rather than her idea. In this process we want it to be her idea to stand and accept the saddle. By holding a loose lead rope, the filly has the option to stand and accept the pad and the saddle or to move away. If she stands, you have the first sign that she is ready to be saddled. If she moves away when you place the saddle pad on her back, she still has a measure of mistrust of foreign objects. You should continue rubbing her with the pad and taking it away and placing it back on her until she accepts it thoroughly. Once the filly stands relaxed with the saddle pad on her back, lift the saddle and cowboycountrymagazine.com
place it on her back. Any movement at this point means you need to spend more time taking the saddle off and placing it back on her before you cinch it down and ask her to move. Once she accepts the saddle, cinch it sufficiently tight so it does not rotate as she moves. Be sure to tighten the cinch in gradual increments as to not scare the filly. Stand back and twirl the lead rope as you did during the response-and-respect exercise. The filly should simply walk around you somewhat relaxed. However, a young horse may buck at this
LEFT: Immediately after saddling, send the filly forward into the Responseand-Respect Exercise
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COWBOY WAY point. Be sure to be prepared for her to buck, and stay out of her way. Continue the response-and-respect exercise until she walks and jogs relaxed in both directions. Take the saddle and pad off, and repeat the whole process a number of times until she is totally relaxed during every step.
Desensitizing with the Saddle Holding the lead rope in one hand, take hold of the stirrup with your other hand and move it in a lateral and up-and-down motion. Begin with a gentle motion, and gradually increase the movement as the filly accepts it. Remember to take pressure off by stopping the motion and letting go of the stirrup just as soon as the filly shows any sign of acceptance. Continue this process until the filly accepts large motions of the stirrup and even the action of tossing the stirrup over the saddle seat and letting it back down on her side. Be sure to work both her left and right side.
Bridling Bridling is the simple process of placing the bridle on the filly’s head with the bit in her mouth. While some believe that it is too soon to put a bit in a horse’s mouth at first ride, I have found that with the suppleness and response we developed in the previous ground training exercises, the young horse has no issues accepting the bit, and is actually very willing to give to pressure right from the beginning. As such there is no risk of hurting her mouth, and we speed up the training process by several weeks, perhaps even a few months, with no stress to the horse.
Bitting The Relaxation Method — The Relaxation method is the most effective way of introducing a young horse to the desired response to bit pressure. The reason it is so effective is best explained by its name: relaxation. This method enables the filly to learn the desired responses without experiencing the fear, pain and evasions that other method of bitting cause. To apply the Relaxation method, simply repeat the exercise you did in Part Two of this series, Building Trust. Except this time you are using the rein and the bit instead of the halter and lead rope. Move slowly at first, allowing the filly to move her feet in response to the light bit pressure. Within a few minutes, the filly will bend her neck and ribcage and move her feet freely just 26
The first exercise after bridling the filly: I stand by her shoulder and holding the rein in my hand closest to the head, I make contact with the rein on her mouth and hold until she flexes the neck and gives to the pressure. Repeat several times on each side.
as she did in response to the halter. At the same time as the front legs cross over and step laterally to one side, the hind legs cross over and step laterally in the opposite direc-
“By holding a loose lead rope, the filly has the option to stand and accept the pad and the saddle or to move away.” tion. The filly’s large muscle groups are flexing, and she moves her feet in response to the light touch on the rein. This is the foundation for maximum performance. The Driving Method — Driving with long lines gives you an opportunity to establish more confidence in the filly’s mind.
While driving, the filly learns to respond to the contact of the bit while moving as opposed to simply responding from a stationary position. The alternative to driving is to ride the filly and train her to give to the hands from horseback. While this is certainly feasible and a very common practice, the action of driving further eliminates the confusion in the horse’s mind and speeds up the learning process. To drive safely and effectively, you will need access to the round pen, a pair of lunge lines, two rings tied to the saddle by either a strap or snaps, and a pair of gloves. Attach the rings to the cinch D-rings, the saddle D-rings or the breast collar attachment rings. Run the driving lines through the rings and snap to the bit’s cheek pieces. Step behind the filly, and ask her to move forward either by using a voice cue or by tapping her with the lines. Begin by having the filly walk and jog in a relaxed manner around the round pen on Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
TOP: Driving at the trot, the filly has learned to give to the steady contact of my hands by flexing at the poll MIDDLE: Backing up on long lines is an important part of training the filly to give to my hands
loose lines. Once this is achieved, you next want to teach her to give to contact by flexing at the pole. To accomplish this lesson, put the filly at the trot on loose lines, and then slightly tighten both lines by making steady contact on her mouth. As soon as she gives ever so slightly to the pressure, release the contact. The filly will soon flex at the poll and give at the withers. Once she trots in a relaxed and steady rhythm both ways, flexes at the poll when you make light steady contact with both hands, turns easily and in a relaxed manner to the pull of one line, and backs up confidently on contact, the filly is ready to ride. Next issue: the First Five Rides. c
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BOTTOM: Step-Around Drill. Stand on the right side of the filly. Take the left rein and run it behind the cantle of the saddle. With the right rein completely loose, take a step away from the filly as you gently pull on the left rein. The filly should simply bend and step around to her left side until she faces you. Be sure to soften the tension in the rein just as she begins to move her front feet.
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We are enjoying the golden age of horsemanship, and it is all thanks to those sharing knowledge. The wealth of clinics, videos and articles available is creating some of the most well-informed riders of our age, and when it comes to saddle fit, both the horse and rider are benefitting. We’ve asked three respected authorities to weigh in on this crucial detail.
Saddle Fit Saddle Tree Maker ROD AND DENISE NIKKEL Saddles are not just for the comfort of the rider. A well-fitted saddle, where the shape of the bars matches the shape of the horse’s back, is more comfortable for the horse as well since it distributes the rider’s weight over a larger surface area than riding bareback does, creating less pressure in any one area. Conversely, a saddle in the wrong position or one with high pressure areas causes pain and damage to horses. For proper positioning, the front of the bar has to be just behind the shoulder blade of the horse. If the saddle is placed on top of the shoulder blade, it creates high pressure and damage. Set your saddle on your horse in the proper position without padding. Run your hand underneath the bars of the tree, feeling for areas of even pressure, high pressure or lack of contact. An ideal-fitting saddle will have even contact all the way along the bar — front to back, top to bottom. 28
High pressure is more common in certain areas. The bottom edges of the bar can have high pressure on them if the angle is too steep for the horse. This can happen anywhere along the bar but is relatively common in the centre of the bar. The top edge of the bar will have high pressure, with no pressure on the bottom edge, if the angle is too wide for For proper positioning, the front of the bar has to be just behind the shoulder blade of the horse. The proper the horse. Remember to check position is found by moving your fingers back over the the tips of the front and back shoulder blade. When it goes from firm to soft, you of the bars, since if they are not have found the back of the shoulder blade. The front of the bar should sit here. designed well, they can really dig into the horse and cause problems. Check under the center of the bar to make sure there is contact as well. Under the rigging is another place there, no space, with the bar only contacting to check, as poorly installed riggings also at the front and back. This is called bridging, create high pressure areas. which happens if the bar is too flat for the Other causes of high pressure are lumps horse. If you are feeling edges or distinct and bumps under the saddle, often caused changes in pressure, you have pressure by screws or nails or poorly installed saddle points on your horse. strings. Run your hands over the underside Feel around the edges of the skirts of your saddle to feel for anything that isn’t for pressure points too, especially under smooth. If you can feel it, so can your horse. the join at the back of the skirts. If poorly Good padding can only dissipate the done, this can rub on a protruding spine pressure so much; high pressure will still and cause real problems. The back edge of come through. If the shape of the saddle the skirts can also rub the hair off a horse, doesn’t match the basic shape of the horse, which means it has to be creating pressure padding will not fix the problem. Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTOS COURTESY STOCK.ADOBE.COM/BARBULAT; BY DENISE NIKKEL
By TERRI MASON
However, Western saddles have enough surface area that even if not all of the tree is contacting the horse, the saddle will still work on the horse as long as there are no high pressure areas. Changing thickness of padding is a good way of keeping the saddle
fit as close to ideal as possible as the horse gains and loses weight.” ➽ For more than 20 years, Rod and Denise Nikkel handcrafted their Western saddle trees for custom saddle makers. Prior to
Performance Fit DUSTIN GONNET I have a wide selection of cutting saddles, so between that and different pads — we use a variety; wool, Five-Star, CSI, and some showy-type cover pads — we’ll have a fit.
Dustin Gonnet winning with This Cats Got Style
Build to “Type” STEVE MASON
PHOTOS BY EVE MILLAR; CUTTING HORSE CENTRAL
I don’t make my own trees; right now I’m getting all my trees from Glen Christman. I used to get some from Rod and Denise [Nikkel], but they’ve since retired. First and foremost, I would like to make it clear that fitting a tree to an individual horse is BS, you must fit a tree to a type of horse. You want the tree to fit the broadest spectrum of horses, not just one individual horse. My reasoning is this: a saddle can last you a lifetime, one horse will not. The same horses back will change through the years, and often just through the seasons because of the horse’s condition from spring to fall, it has a different back and that affects how your saddle is going to fit. The horse’s back never stops evolving. What’s important is that you have a tree to fit a “type” of horse. If you always ride Thoroughbred horses or if you always ride cowboycountrymagazine.com
When I go to a show I don’t change equipment. I do not like using something that horse is unfamiliar with. If they are used to two pads — whether the pads are ugly or not — that’s what gets used in the competition. I’ve gotten into a wee bit of trouble at some of these shows. Sometimes you’ll
that, Rod was a working cowboy and Denise was a veterinarian. Their combined experience gives them extensive knowledge about saddles and saddle fit. Watch their video Western Saddle Fit – the Essentials on youtube. westernsaddlefit.com
draw back-to-back-to-back, and if I have a horse that takes the same saddle, I will take the time and switch saddles. I’ll hold the show up to do it — I don’t care. In my opinion, I’m getting paid to go down there and show that horse, and if that’s the saddle that I think makes that horse perform to the best of its ability, then they’re going to wait for me.” ➽ Dustin Gonnet is a professional horse trainer who at the age of 33 surpassed the $1-million mark in earnings a few years ago in Cutting horse competitions. He trains from his Gonnet Performance Horses stables near Cayley, Alta. On average, he has at least 30 different Quarter horses in training. gonnetperformancehorses.com
mutton-withered horses, then that’s a type and there is a type of tree that fits best. What you want is a tree that fits the average build of the horses you ride. The tree maker and the saddle maker can make a saddle that will fit the most horses possible, which is what most people need — whether you’re a working cowboy, a rodeo competitor or a performance rider — and that’s exactly what you want. In my opinion, I think saddle fitting should be left to the experts — the tree makers Steve Mason and the saddle makers. But once that saddle leaves the shop it’s out of our control what the customer that’s taking care of your horse — and that’s does; whether it’s putting the saddle in horsemanship. the wrong spot, cinching too tight, to using dirty blankets. It’s also about horseman➽ Steve Mason is a professional saddle ship. Part of horsemanship is taking care of maker and leather craftsman whose work your horse’s back, finding the right blanket is well-known in the working cowboy and combination for each horse. When I’m out performance horse world. His leather shop, riding with some guys and we come to a Steve Mason Saddlery, is in High River, Alta. gate and I see someone reset their saddle, stevemasonsaddles.com c 29
BUYER’S GUIDE
Mind Games that Work By TERRI MASON
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trip grazing, mob grazing — each is a highly efficient way to utilize what your ranch has on offer, and the cheapest and fastest way to set it up is with portable electric fence utilized to section off grazing areas inside a permanent perimeter fence. Plan for Success
Powerful Mind Game
The most cost-effective and easiest way to solve major dilemmas — such as access to water — is to literally start with a plan. You can sketch out your ideas on a simple piece of paper, or an easy way to get an accurate layout of your place is to download an aerial view of your outfit from Google maps and sketch in your fencing plan and water sources. Not sure how to access maps on Google? Often forage associations or an RM office can help.
Essentially, an electric fence is only a psychological deterrent, advises Albert Kuipers, a forage and grazing specialist with the Grey Wooded Forage Association in central Alberta. The animal receives a small shock, which startles them and they avoid the cause in the future. The best “shock power” recommended for cattle is a minimum of 3,000 volts, preferably 4,500 volts. Generally, one hip-height wire is all you need for a temporary grazing fence.
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Before Shopping Consult your plan, and consult with an expert to determine your shopping list. Power or solar power source, corner posts, line posts, wire, insulators, tighteners and other special tools — it’s a long list. As well, check the manufacturer’s websites, as it often hosts a wide range of videos and information to help you make informed and efficient choices.
RESOURCES: Information: greywoodedforageassociation.com saskforage.ca bcforagecouncil.ca Manufacturers: am.gallagher.com woodstreambrands.ca
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO COURTESY GALLAGHER
Temporary Electric Fencing
Training the animal is very important. In a new field, flagging with strips of survey tape helps with visibility, but the best way for cattle to experience their first electric fence is to touch it with their nose. With new cattle, some folks run a second wire close to the ground that will come in contact with the bovine’s nose if they are grazing too near the wire. Does it hurt? Not as much as it surprises them. However, people-wise, it’s recommended that you mark electric fences to keep people safe too. You never know who has a pacemaker or heart issues.
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The Tru-TestTM WaterProTM 2 provides fresh, reliable water to your horses all year. This waterer is top quality with brassinfused fittings, tool-free access, and a shut-off valve. It has solid foam insulation and comes with an immersion heater.
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RANCHER’S SPECIAL
What Works For Us Grass Management
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asture management is crucial, whether it’s for cattle, horses, wildlife or as is often the case, a combination of all three. I contacted grass managers from three diverse ranges to ask, what works on your place? Every range is different with varying challenges ranging from altitude and rainfall to stocking numbers and types of livestock, so maintaining grass health can be a delicate balance. I extend my thanks to the folks who shared their know-how of what works for them.
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO BY CLIFF HORRICKS
By TERRI MASON
SEVEN ROTATIONS OF PERMANENT PASTURES CLIFF HORRICKS
Our pastures are old rangeland. It’s marginal land — so you don’t want to be grain farming it because it’s rocky and hilly. It’s tame grass wherever it was broke many, many years ago, and I have some wild grass in one of my pastures. We always wait until June before we put the cattle on the pasture. My dad, Albert, who started this farm always said, if you hold them off for one day in the spring it can equal up to four days extra grazing in the fall. Our cattle are cross-bred, predominantly Simmental, crossed with Angus and some horned Hereford in the background. We’ve used a lot of red factor Simmental bulls the last few years. I split them into cow/calf pairs in one herd (about 135 head), and my first and second calf heifers are in another — generally 65 head or so. We’re not intensive grazing; we rotate the cattle through the pastures. With my cow/calf herd we just go from one quarter to the next, and they have four rotations; and for the smaller herd they have three rotations. I also have some rented land that we don’t rotate. We stock it to what it will handle.
A & C Horricks Farms Strathcona County, Tofield/Edmonton region
Cows on the A & C Horricks Farms waiting for June grass
Average annual precipitation: 505 mm (20 inches) Approximate elevation: 700 m (2,300 ft) Commercial herd
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RANCHER’S SPECIAL
COMMUNICATION & COOPERATION MELODY NAGEL-HISEY
We [Saskatchewan Provincial Parks] have a partnership with the Cypress Hills Stockmen’s Assoc., who works with their members to determine their allotment. Last year we had over 2,400 head (some cow/calf pairs, mainly yearlings) in this area. In the West Block the grazing season is from May 24 – October 15. There are a good number of cattle that come in right away; throughout the season they bring in smaller bunches. The number of cattle each rancher brings is based on their AUM allotment; each rancher has a different AUM. [An Animal Unit (AU) is generally one mature cow of approximately 1,000 pounds and a calf as old as six months. An Animal Unit Month (AUM) is the amount of forage required by one animal unit for one month. —Editor.]
As part of Melody Nagel-Hisey’s work, she sometimes rides in parades to promote Cypress Hills Park. This is Melody at the Calgary Stampede Parade wearing historic period garb promoting the authentic Old Forts Trail that passes through the Cypress Hills.
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West Block Park Supervisor West Block — Cypress Hills, Sask* Cattle grazing area: 52 sections of grass and forest — perimeter fenced Average precipitation: 607 mm (24 inches) Approximate plateau elevation: 1,250– 1,340 m (4,100–4,400 ft) * Since December 1918, this area has been governed in part by an organization of ranchers called the Cypress Hills Stockmen’s Association in cooperation with the provincial government. 2018 will mark their 100th grazing season. —Editor.
The cattle are moved into the park from different sides; there are a few that haul to a drop-off point, but the majority of the cattle are trailed in. When the cattle bunch up we have a contract rider, Kevin Redden, who moves the cattle out of certain areas to ensure they don’t overgraze. Kevin was Parks staff for a number of years and knows the area well, so we were able contract him back to help out with the whole program. Throughout the season Kevin regularly rides and checks the conditions — I’m checking conditions as well — then we discuss it and see what has to be moved where. Sometimes we do some moving together; sometimes it’s just Kevin and someone else, but conditions are managed through discussion and monitoring of the whole grassland ecosystem. Last year because of the dry conditions grazing didn’t happen where we normally want it to. Because it was so hot, the cattle preferred to stay in the bush where it was shady and cool and close to a source of water, but we still tried to maintain some management where we found they were overgrazing. We were lucky enough that many were grazing down on the Four Mile area where we needed extra grazing to occur, so we lucked out that way. Generally speaking it’s constant monitoring and moving as needed. Sometimes you move them and a day or two later they’re back where you moved them from, and you’ve got to go out and do it again. But that’s kind of the fun part of the job. Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO COURTESY MELODY NAGEL-HISEY
We have dugouts and sloughs in all the pastures, but in those dry years they dried up, so all of the pastures for the main herd can now access an alleyway that funnels to a 20-acre piece that hosts big water troughs that we use if we’re short of water. They like fresh, clean water so we keep it stocked, but in a normal year the dugouts are fine. If we’ve got the time we like to use the horses to move the cattle. But if we’re really busy sometimes we just open the gate, come back in a couple of days and close the gate behind them after they’ve all moved. They all like fresh grass. With older pastures like mine we don’t break them up and reseed, but we have to do regular maintenance to stop encroachment of thistles and what-not. We used to do a lot of mowing and, man, they were right back the next year and just as thick, so I do as little chemical application as possible to keep it under control. We have plenty of wildlife on our place such as deer, moose and coyotes. In the fall the moose are in the rut, and they are very hard on the fences. They’re always taking out that top wire so we’re always checking fence lines.”
Because we manage the state of our grasslands as best we can, we didn’t see a need or an urgency to move [the cattle] out of the park (referring to 2017 dry conditions). We even went into a complete fire ban and closed the Park to the public, but we allowed the cattle to remain in because we still need areas grazed. Of course, you know we have two roundups: an early one: September 15–17 and the final one: October 15–17. Members have to inform the Park of their wishes for removing cattle early so that’s figured into their AUM's, and the whole big plan is formed again at the beginning of the season. These days, Parks has its own ecosystem managers and technicians that specifically study grasslands, and they lay out what is allowed for grazing allotments in all of our provincial parks. While we do work really close with the association and its members, it’s the Park management and the Ministry that dictate what’s allowed within any park for grazing. Having said that, in Cypress Hills we have a very, very special relationship, from what I understand compared to other parks, with our members and it’s been hand-in-hand to make this work together. I’d have to say that in my short experience in this role that the communication and cooperation is absolutely exemplary here. Tanya Lawson was the Park supervisor in the West Block for a decade, and she took me under her wing and taught me a lot about what is involved in the West Block operation, which led into where I am today. It’s been an awesome experience.”
CREATING NEW PASTURES PHOTO COURTESY ELISHA BRADBURN
GLENN STEWART
I keep my mares down the road at a different farm. I keep my stallion, geldings and young horses here. I’ve got divided pastures, but all the horses including the stallion live together as much as possible. I have six pastures, and I rotate the horses, depending on the time of year. cowboycountrymagazine.com
Natural Horsemanship clinician, Glenn Stewart on his 2000 stallion, Genuine Jet Smooth. Glenn and Jet emerged the winners of the first Extreme Cowboy Race held in Canada at the inaugural Calgary Stampede Cowboy Up Challenge in 2010.
In wintertime I’m actually building more pasture as I take my skid steer and roll the round bale out through my poplar trees onto fresh snow. In the process of eating, the horses stomp down the underbrush of the rose and prickle bushes and naturally fertilize the area. I’m careful not to overdo it as I don’t want to kill the trees. In the summer it’s like riding in a park. I’m also forever harrowing the pastures to spread the manure. Most of my fences are made of a top rail made of 2⅜" pipe with one wireline cable about the size of your baby finger. All of my fields are permanently fenced, and each has bush and hills for shelter. I only feed hay for two to three months. I used to put up hay, but I quit. In my 20-acre hayfield I pasture the horses in there on and off until mid-July, then pull them until after freeze-up and let the grass grow. I move the
horses there in the winter, and they paw for grass. This keeps them in excellent shape, and I don’t have to feed hay until sometime in January. Even the best hay has dust in it, and by pawing through snow my horses are much healthier.” c
The Horse Ranch Baldonnel, East of Fort St. John, B.C. Average annual precipitation: 450 mm (18 inches) Approximate elevation: 680 meters (2,230 ft) Herd size: Horses, 12–25 head
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War Paint & Regalia
A very young First Nations rider approaching the finish line signals victory to the cheering capacity crowd
Canadian Indian Relay Racing By DOROTHY LETHBRIDGE
I
n the last few years Indian Relay Racing has expanded in popularity, and now our country boasts the Canadian Indian Relay Racing Association (CIRRA). These races are not new, and the roots go back over 400 years, making it one of the oldest sports in North America. Horses have always been revered by native cultures, and ownership reflected stature, provided transportation and offered an outlet for competition including relay racing. Now the sport has been modernized. Standardized rules allow for an even playing field, and only recognized treaty members are allowed to participate. The race starts with mounted riders at the track’s start line and the team’s “Catcher” holding the horse. The other team members (Back Holder, Setter/ Exchange Holder) and horses are in designated boxes outlined in chalk to the side of the track. As the horn blows, the riders take off racing around the track. When they reach their team’s box, the rider dismounts and jumps unassisted onto another horse held by the “Exchange Holder.” The rider continues for another lap around the track and does another “exchange.” The third and final lap ends as riders cross the finish line. This seems straightforward, but stopping a horse that’s bred to race is no easy feat, and it fills the races with thrilling action. Relay racing involves highly skilled athletes, and the training, strength and skill needed to successfully execute an “exchange” are monumental. These exchanges are what often wins or loses the race. There are significant dangers, and team members must look out for each other. Penalties are given for infractions such as horses running loose or helping the rider mount the horse. Disqualifications are 36
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
handed out for loose horses getting onto the track and other infringements. Just a few years ago in the Northern United States, Pendleton, Billings, and Sheridan hosted races, and Indian Relay Racing became wildly popular with support from the United States’ Horse Nation Relay Association. Soon the races crossed the border into Canada at Kainai First Nation in 2011. Popularity grew, and during the fall of 2017, the first-ever Canadian Indian Relay Racing Championship was held. This two-day event was hosted by CIRRA and The Accompanied by the keening voices of the singers and the pounding drumbeat, the flag carriers Rocky Mountain Turf Club lead the dancers in their regalia for the Grand Entry, which signals the official opening in Lethbridge, Alta., which included the Ladies Race, Chief Race and Warrior Race. The grandstands were full, colourful pow wow dancers stepped to the side with the last drum beat, the Grand Entry and Opening Ceremony ended and the crowd’s attention quickly turned to racing. Jun 9–10 The teams entered onto the Enoch Cree Nation track in their vividly coloured Maskwacis, Alta. regalia and war painted horses, Jun 16–17 and the races began. Those Lethbridge, Alta. attending witnessed the Jun 22–23 Blackfoot team Old Sun, from Siksika First Nation, east of Mistawasis First Nation team Olds, Alta. Calgary, Alta. From left, Cody Big Tobacco, Allison Red Crow, from Saskatchewan crossing the Jun 29–Jul 1 Mark Big Tobacco, Ian Big Tobacco, Skylar Bear Chief. Onion Lake, Sask. finish line to take the Canadian Jul 6–7 Championship. Weyburn, Sask. Dexter Bruisedhead, CIRRA spokesman Catcher (the one who holds the horse at the start Jul 9–12 commented, “This Championship was history of each race and takes the horse from the rider), Calgary Stampede Invitational in the making with 12 teams attending. There Skylar Bear Chief is the Back Holder (the one who Calgary, Alta. are so many more teams in the 2018 season that keeps the unused horse to the side) and Allison Jul 13–15 we anticipate 24 teams at this year’s championRed Crow is the Setter/Exchange Holder (the North Battleford, Sask. ship event and bigger prize money throughout one who holds the horse for the exchange). He Jul 19 Maple Creek, Sask. the season.” also owns the horses and oversees the training The sport's momentum continues. The Calgary regimen. Jul 21–22 Kainai First Nation Stampede introduced Indian Relay Racing as a Red Crow has a lifelong involvement with Standoff, Alta. Demonstration event in 2017, prepares to showhorses, including competing on the rodeo circuit Aug 4–5 case the races in their 2018 program. “It definitely and horse wrangling for movies. He says, “As Piikani First Nation was a crowd favourite,” explained Kynan Vine, First Nation horsemen, we work hard and have Brocket, Alta. Calgary Stampede Manager for Rodeo and a positive perspective on what we do. We desire Aug 10–12 Chuckwagons. “We’re always proud to showcase to display integrity and pride in our culture. I Saskatoon, Sask. our cultural heritage.” believe we have a spectacular sport to share with Aug 25–26 Maskwacis, Alta. One team attending both the Canadian the rest of the world.” c CIRRA Canadian Championships and the Calgary Stampede Championships is Blackfoot team Old Sun, from Siksika First For more information, visit Facebook: Canadian Sep 7–9 Nation, east of Calgary, Alta. Cody Big Tobacco Indian Relay Racing Association. Lethbridge, Alta. is their Rider, Mark Big Tobacco is the Mugger/
ALL PHOTOS BY DOROTHY LETHBRIDGE
CANADIAN INDIAN RELAY RACING SCHEDULE
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WESTERN WILDLIFE ART
A Moment in TIme Canadian Wildlife in Art By TERRI MASON
A
rtists have always been my favourite people. Whether their talents are creating a sound, a story or an image, artists celebrate their unique vision that captures a moment in time. I’ve enjoyed the monumental task of putting together a celebration of Canadian wildlife artists who range from the internationally famous, awardwinning to famous in our cowboy world. It has been tremendously fun seeing and sharing what’s new in their ageless realm. That’s the beauty of wildlife — a bear of a century ago looks the same as a bear of yesterday — it’s the artistic interpretation that brings the image into a new light. Thanks to the Canadian wildlife artists, photographers and sculptors who portray the sheer wild of the wildlife, the joy of artistic interpretation and the glimpse of a parallel universe inhabited only by the animal in the frame, who generously opened up their galleries to us so we could share their vision with you. TOP
BOTTOM
The Coyote 11" x 14" Ink on Photographic Paper
Guardian of the Gyrfalcon 10.8" x 16.3" (Edition of 750) Acrylic on Canvas
Photographer Jon Bowie Maple Creek, Sask. jonbowie.ca
Artist Nathalie Parenteau Whitehorse, Yukon nathalieparenteau.com
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
JULY 6-15, 2018 HALLS A, D AND E BMO CENTRE
Buttermilk and Toast by the Fire
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Beyond Bareback
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WESTERN WILDLIFE ART
TOP Tracking Powder 4' x 6' Acrylic on Canvas Triptych Artist Marlene Pegg McLeese Lake, B.C. Won the People’s Choice Award at 2018 Kamloops Cowboy Festival
BOTTOM Moose with Alberta Foothills Landscape & Wildlife 16" x 20" Watercolour on Paper Artist Kim Hunter Vancouver, B.C. kimhunter.ca
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
CHARLIE RUSSELL is one of America's Greatest Artists Meet the women who made it happen... Charles M. Russell: The Women in His Life & Art As compelling today as they were in his own time, the C.M. Russell Museum is proud to share the stories behind the inspirational and forward-thinking women who made the creative life of Charles M. Russell possible. Don't miss this exciting new exhibition that examines the life and work of Charles M. Russell in the context of the women including his wife Nancy and close friend Josephine Trigg who encouraged his creativity and helped shape his career. The exhibition features 60 works in oil, watercolor, pen and ink and bronze by Charles Russell and several additional works by notable artists. M AY–SEPTEMBER 2018 Nancy Russell sitting on a fallen tree, Collection of C.M. Russell Museum, Gift of Richard Flood II
Presented By:
400 13 th Street North | Great Falls, Montana | (406) 727-8787 | cmrussell.org
jodyskinner@shaw.ca cowboycountrymagazine.com
a
www.jodyskinner.com
a
403-804-8907 41
WESTERN WILDLIFE ART
TOP LEFT Cowbird Perched on a Cow 11" x 14" Ink on Photographic Paper Photographer Liz Twan Williams Lake, B.C.
TOP RIGHT Tatanka at Rest 48" x 36" Watercolour Artist Gena LaCoste Medicine Hat, Alta. genalacoste.com BOTTOM Optical Surveillance 12" x 38" Reproduction, Limited Edition Canvas Artist Denis Mayer Jr Burnaby, B.C. denismayerjr.com
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
Gena LaCoste
BRONZES BY
IMAGES OF THE LIVING WEST
McDougall cohoe
Peace of Mind
Visit us at Calgary Stampede Western Art Show Hall of Fame display Contact
Jean Minchau 403.653.4769 bronzesbygina@gmail.com
www.bronzesbygina.com
Swishing & Waiting watercolour on paper 14" x 10"
Broken Spoke Gallery | Maple Creek, SK Alberta’s Own Marketplace | Canmore, AB Lineham House Gallery | Okotoks, AB Vale’s Greenhouse (June 22, 23, & 24) | Black Diamond, AB
Gena LaCoste, Medicine Hat, AB 403.527.0650
gena03@telusplanet.net | genalacoste.com
Dominic Valine Spurs & Silver Box 68 LaGlace, AB T0H 2J0 780-568-4690 780-831-4439 domvaline@gmail.com Builder of sweet iron bits and silver spurs, ranch buckles, and saddle bling. Visit us on Facebook.
Carolyn Sinclair Artist
“I PROMISE” C U R R E N T LY AC C E PT ING C OMMIS SIONS
carolynsinclairartist.com cowboycountrymagazine.com
John Bear’s Horses – 1971 – Allen Sapp
Calgary Stampede Studio Artist 43
WESTERN WILDLIFE ART TOP LEFT
TOP RIGHT
BOTTOM
Learning to Be a Bear 8" x 18" Brazilian Soapstone with chlorite inlay nose and garnet eyes on B.C. Jade base
Regal 28" x 18" Oil on Canvas
Spirits of Island Lake 48" x 30" Acrylic on Canvas
Artist Jody Skinner Calgary, Alta. jodyskinner.com
Artist K. Neil Swanson Calgary, Alta. knswansonart.com
Artist Vance Theoret 100 Mile House, B.C. vancetheoret.com
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
Pro Rodeo
CANADA
INSIDER
FEAR THE BEARD-LESS!
PHOTO BY PHIL DOYLE
You know a cowboy is famous when the simple act of shaving makes international news! This is a recent photo of 2016 World Champion Team Roper (heeler), Jeremy Buhler, coiling his loop at a rodeo south of the Medicine Line where he has been competing with header partner, 2016 World Champion Team Roper (header) Levi Simpson. For rodeo results and standings, visit rodeocanada.com
RODEOCANADA.COM cowboycountrymagazine.com
CANADIAN COWBOY COUNTRY JUNE/JULY 2018 45
C I N C H J E A N S . C O M
LEVI SIMPSON
2016 WORLD CHAMPION
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
C.P.R.A.
2018 Canadian Professional Rodeo Association Schedule MAY
President’s Message June has arrived, and we’re well into rodeo season. Entries are strong with fans cheering on contestants from both sides of the 49th parallel. CFR 45 plans are also moving forward. Westerner Park staff has concluded All-In Ticket sales and are moving forward with ticket sales for the public. The CFR committee has met a number of times and continues to work on details for an exciting 2018 Canadian Finals Rodeo in Red Deer. The CPRA is happy to welcome Finning Canada as the Canadian Pro Rodeo Tour title sponsor for 2018. The world’s largest Caterpillar dealer, Finning has been in operation for 80 years. Based across Western Canada, Finning sells, rents and provides parts and services for equipment and engines to customers in various industries, including agriculture, mining, construction, petroleum, forestry and a wide range of power systems applications. Among Canadian rodeos celebrating milestone anniversaries this year is the just completed Falkland Stampede. The interior British Columbia rodeo marked 100 years on the May long weekend. Thank you to those CPRA members who attended the CPRA Annual General Meeting. Held March 24 in Airdrie, Alta., the meeting provided attendees with an opportunity to hear about CPRA finances (which are in very positive territory), new directions and updates from within the organization. My condolences to the family and friends of Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame cowboy, Ted Vayro, who passed away in late April. A competitor, CPRA director, stock contractor and CFR livestock superintendent, Ted contributed much to the world of rodeo. On a happier note, congratulations to this year’s Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame inductees: contestants Fred Duke and Wayde Joyal; builder, Doug (Shakey) Russell; livestock, Kesler Rodeo’s saddle bronc horse Rodeo News and legends, Blake Butterfield and Lyle Smith. Happy trails! — Terry Cooke, President, CPRA
Grande Prairie, AB................................ May 30–Jun 3 Leduc, AB................................................. May 31–Jun 3
JUNE Wildwood, AB *..................................... Jun 1–2 Craigmyle/Hand Hills, AB.................. Jun 2–3 Rocky Mountain House, AB............. Jun 7–10 Brooks, AB.............................................. Jun 8–9 Lea Park/Marwayne, AB................... Jun 8–10 Innisfail, AB............................................. Jun 15–17 Wainwright, AB — ProTour............... Jun 21–24 High River, AB........................................ Jun 22–24 Sundre, AB.............................................. Jun 22–24 Ponoka, AB — ProTour........................ Jun 26–Jul 2 Airdrie, AB............................................... Jun 28–Jul 2 Williams Lake, BC — ProTour........... Jun 29–Jul 2
JULY Coronation, AB...................................... Jul 6–7 Benalto, AB............................................. Jul 6–8 Taber, AB — pending........................... Jul 6–8 Teepee Creek, AB.................................. Jul 13–15 Oyen, AB *................................................ Jul 18 Morris, MB — ProTour........................ Jul 19–22 Edmonton, AB — ProTour.................. Jul 20–22 Kennedy, SK........................................... Jul 21–22 Pollockville, AB *................................... Jul 28 Bowden, AB *......................................... Jul 28 Medicine Hat, AB — ProTour............ Jul 26–28 Bonnyville, AB........................................ Jul 27–28 Bruce, AB................................................. Jul 29 High Prairie, AB..................................... Jul 31–Aug 1 * – Special Event ProTour – Tour Rodeo
PHOTO COURTESY CPRA
Dates are subject to change. Please visit rodeocanada.com for up-to-date information, up-to-the-minute rodeo results and draws.
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Pro Rodeo Canada Insider
The Short Round
HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES The Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame proudly announced its 2018 inductees. Congratulations to competitors Fred Duke (1966 Canadian Calf Roping Champion) and Wayde Joyal (1993–94 Canadian Bull Riding Champion); in the Builder category is Doug
(Shakey) Russell — 4-time CFR bull fighter (1980–1983) and the Animal inducted is Kesler Rodeo’s saddle bronc, Rodeo News. The 2018 Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame Induction Banquet takes place on Oct 20 at the Coast Plaza Hotel in Calgary. The fourth poker tournament and pre-banquet social is scheduled for Friday evening featuring this year’s inductees with the proceeds benefiting the Hall of Fame. About the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame (CPRHOF): Since 1981, 195 inductees have been inducted into the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame, which is located upstairs in the Calnash Ag Events Centre in Ponoka, Alta. To nominate someone for induction into the CPRHOF visit the nomination tab at canadianprorodeohalloffame.com. —CPRA
By CPRA, TERRI MASON
JUST IN CASE YOU MISSED IT CPRA MEMBERS ONLY If you don’t have an online member account with the CPRA, consider setting one up. CPRA member login has up-todate statistics on rodeo entries. Members can check numbers, enter rodeos and change preferences. It’s time-saving and easy to use. Call 403-945-0903 to have your online account set up today. —CPRA
EMPTY SADDLES
GEORGE EDWIN (TED) VAYRO 1936 –2018
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PHOTO BY KOBSTED
Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame cowboy, Ted Vayro of Knutsford, B.C., passed away April 26. Ted became a CRCA and RCA member in 1959 and competed in the bareback and steer wrestling events. Ted served as a Director on the CPRA Board for 16 years and was coowner of the Grasslands Rodeo Contracting business, raising excellent rodeo stock. Ted contributed his time for over 20 years as the CFR Livestock superintendent, retiring in 1995 to spend more time on the development of junior rodeo competitors in B.C. —CPRA
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PROUD TO BE IN OUR COMMUNITY
1-888-Finning | Finning.com 346-6464
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Pro Rodeo Canada Insider THE SHORT ROUND
PRO RODEO, PLUS ALL THIS! Falkland, B.C.
The 100th Annual Falkland Stampede (May 19–21) is celebrating its centennial! Enjoy a daily pancake breakfast; the Heavy Horse Pull goes Monday. falklandstampede.ca
Innisfail, Alta.
The 58th Annual Innisfail Professional Rodeo at the Daines Ranch (Jun 15–17) is featuring Lyndsey Hoff (Friday) and Drew Gregory (Saturday) in the beer gardens after the rodeo. innisfailprorodeo.com
High River, Alta.
The Guy Weadick Days (Jun 21–24) have increased their purse and the size of their infield video playback screen. The rodeo clown is Brinson Harris out of Florida, and Drew Gregory is coming in for their expanded cabaret. They are featuring a Ranch Horse Race and Sidesaddle Racing; expanded campground. Fingers crossed for a fly-by from the RCAF and the WPCA chuckwagons roll every night. highriverag.com
Sundre, Alta.
The 39th Annual Sundre Pro Rodeo (Jun 22–24) announced its Cowboy Cabaret entertainer is Jamie Woodfin Saturday night. sundrerodeo.com
Ponoka, Alta.
The 82nd Annual Ponoka Stampede (Jun 26–Jul 2) is bringing in The Roadhammers and Trace Atkins for its evening stage shows. If you want to ride in the three-mile long parade, visit ponokastampede.com and download the application.
Williams Lake, B.C.
The 92nd Annual World Famous Williams Lake Stampede (Jun 29–Jul 2) also features the thrilling Mountain Race, Ranch Challenge and Wild Cowgirls Race. Famous wood carver Ryan Cook from the Carver Kings will be on-site. williamslakestampede.com
Benalto, Alta.
For the first time in over a century, the 101st Benalto Pro Rodeo (Jul 5–8) will be bringing in a big screen for video instant replay. Be sure to check out the old-time bench show (quilting, crafts, best vegetable competitions). benaltoagsociety.ca
Teepee Creek, Alta.
The 102nd Annual Teepee Creek Stampede (Jul 12–15) is bringing in Deric Ruttan, The Road Hammers and Dean Brody for its nightly concert series. Check out all the western events in the Lyons Production Ag Centre. tpstampede.ca
Strathmore, Alta.
The 54th Annual Strathmore Stampede (Aug 3–6) also features Wild Pony Racing, chuckwagon racing and Run with the Bulls — register onsite. strathmorestampede.com
Jasper, Alta.
The 101st Annual Jasper Heritage Rodeo has changed its dates to Aug 8–11. jasperheritagerodeo.com
Dawson Creek, B.C.
The 96th Annual Dawson Creek Exhibition (Aug 8–12) also hosts a Trade Fair, Art Show, Gospel Festival, a two-day Ranch Rodeo and chuckwagon racing. dawsoncreekfair.com
Pincher Creek, Alta.
The Pincher Creek Pro Rodeo (Aug 16–19) is also holding a team roping competition, a kids gymkhana, plus Calf Scramble and Wild Ride (6 local cowboys) on Saturday and a cabaret. pinchercreekprorodeo.com
Olds, Alta.
Oldstoberfest (Sep 14–15) announced two grandstand shows — a classic rock concert featuring Honeymoon Suite on Friday and a famous country band on Saturday. Olds College Brewery will again make its Oldstoberfest craft beer to enjoy in the authentic Bavarian Biergarten as you re-watch the rodeo on the big screen. oldstoberfest.com —T.M.
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SPORTS MED WANTS TO KNOW The Canadian Pro Rodeo Sport Medicine Team is moving toward an online medical records system, which will allow them to keep better medical records on each competitor and his/ her injuries. This will help Sport Med collect data on injury patterns as they pertain to each event and assist the team in making better recommendations on injury prevention and management. In order to do this, CPRSMT needs to be able to put member information into the system. Download the form from the CPRA home page at rodeocanada.com. —CPRA
#CFR45 HOST HOTEL ANNOUNCED The CPRA is pleased to announce that the Sheraton Red Deer has been selected as the CPRA’s host hotel during the 2018 Canadian Finals Rodeo. Events at the Sheraton Red Deer will include the Night of Champions on Monday, Oct 29, Committee Convention on Thursday, Nov 1 and all other CPRA business meetings. —CPRA
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO COURTESY GARY CROSINA, PIONEER LOG HOMES
Williams Lake Stampede Park’s carved entrance
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Pro Rodeo Canada Insider THE SHORT ROUND
50 YEARS — AND COUNTING! HISTORIC RODEOS OF THE CANADIAN WEST This summer, hit the trail to enjoy some of the oldest rodeos now running under the professional rodeo banner in the Canadian West. From the plains of Saskatchewan to the high lonesome of northern B.C., each rodeo boasts a unique experience and is steeped in the best each community has to offer. 50th Leduc Black Gold Pro Rodeo May 31–Jun 3, Leduc, Alta. blackgoldrodeo.com
105th Calgary Stampede Jul 6–15, Calgary, Alta. calgarystampede.com
102nd Hand Hills Stampede Jun 2–3, Hand Hills, Alta. handhills.ab.ca
102nd TeePee Creek Stampede Jul 13–15, TeePee Creek, Alta. tpstampede.ca
64th Lea Park Pro Rodeo Jun 8–10, Marwayne, Alta. leaparkprorodeo.com
Moose Mountain Pro Rodeo Jul 21–22, Kennedy, Sask. See us on Facebook
58th Innisfail Pro Rodeo Jun 15–17, Daines Rodeo Ranch, Innisfail, Alta., innisfailprorodeo.com
110th Medicine Hat Stampede July 26–28, Medicine Hat, Alta. mhstampede.com
65th Wainwright Stampede Jun 21–24, Wainwright, Alta. wainwrightstampede.ca 39th Sundre Pro Rodeo Jun 22–24, Sundre, Alta. sundrerodeo.com
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92nd Jasper Pro Rodeo Aug 8–11, Jasper, Alta. jasperheritagerodeo.com 119th Interior Provincial Exhibition & Stampede (IPE) Aug 20–Sep 1, Armstrong, B.C.
TWO LOOPS, TWO WINS Drayton Valley Pro Rodeo saw a high-five performance — well, actually two — by one cowboy. Jesse Popescul of Wood Mountain, Sask., was the header of the winning set of team ropers of Popescul and Wyatt Eirikson, who together won the event with a snappy 3.7 second run. Also entered in the tie-down roping, Popescul wowed the crowd when he also snaked a loop on the running bovine and made the tie in 9.0 to not only win that event, but to be named the Drayton Valley High Point Champion. For complete Drayton Valley results, go to rodeocanada.com. —TM
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO COURTESY WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Bareback rider Yvan Jayne, 35, who qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in 2015-16, announced his retirement after breaking his pelvis. The injury occurred during a ride on United Pro Rodeo’s Happy Trails on April 27 at a rodeo in Jourdanton, Texas. In an interview Jayne stated that he was having “issues” with his pelvis, which broke during the ride. The injury also tore some arteries, resulting in emergency surgery to repair internal bleeding. Born and raised in Marseille, France, (he moved to Texas as a teenager) the highlight of Jayne’s rodeo career came in 2015 when he made history as the first European-born competitor at the Wrangler NFR. In 2016, Jayne made it to the Showdown Sunday round at the Calgary Stampede. Outside of rodeo, Jayne has been building luxury treehouses, and has plans to build a bed-and-breakfast. Jayne and his wife, Kristin, live in Texas. They have a daughter, Sienna, 5, and are expecting a baby boy in August. “It has become more important to me to be able to do things with my kids than it is for me to ride bareback horses.” —TM
92nd Williams Lake Stampede Jun 29–Jul 2, Williams Lake, B.C. williamslakestampede.com 101st Benalto Pro Rodeo Jul 6–8, Benalto, Alta. benaltoagsociety.ca
53rd Strathmore Stampede Aug 3–6, Strathmore, Alta. strathmorestampede.com 96th Dawson Creek Stampede Aug 10–12, Dawson Creek, B.C. dawsoncreekfair.com
72nd Ponoka Stampede Jun 26–Jul 2, Ponoka, Alta. ponokastampede.com
AU REVOIR, YVAN!
105th Bruce Stampede Jul 29, Bruce, Alta. brucestampede.ca
: Pro Rodeo : Concerts : : Cold Craft Beer : : Authentic Bavarian Biergartens :
Olds, Alberta
OLDS REGIONAL EXHIBITION
For more Information check out Oldstoberfest.com cowboycountrymagazine.com
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Pro Rodeo Canada Insider COMPETITOR PROFILE
DIANE SKOCDOPOLE “SUPER” SONIC By DIANNE FINSTAD
O
NLY A YEAR AGO DIANE SKOCDOPOLE WAS PUTTING LEGS TO A LITTLE DREAM OF HERS
— TAKING HER BARREL RACING HOBBY TO THE BIG STAGE. THIS RANCHER AND MOTHER HAD A MARE NAMED SONIC (JG HECTORS PIZZAZZ) WITH SOME POTENTIAL, IF SHE COULD JUST KEEP HER HUSBAND DALE FROM TAKING HER
Fast-forward and one dream season later, Sonic has earned her stripes as a bona fide world-class barrel racing sensation. She helped take Skocdopole all the way to the Canadian Finals Rodeo, sweeping up the Rookie of the Year and Permit Awards along the way. Sonic was a two-year-old when she came to the Skocdopole Ranch in the heart of cowboy country west of Big Valley, Alta. Dale, a CFR tie-down and team roper, had done a deal with a Nebraska trainer for a rope horse. Diane asked if they had any young prospects, and Sonic surfaced. “Might as well throw her in the trailer,” Dale had stated, and Diane had a project on her hands. Despite marrying into a rodeo family, Skocdopole was new to the game. Her arena experience had been in showing Quarter horses instead. But when her good show horse got sick, a nearby friend urged her to borrow one of her husband’s rope horses and come to a local barrel racing jackpot. “I did and had fun, and never looked back,” smiled Skocdopole, who was soon hooked. “There’s so many rodeo people in this area, it’s easy.” 54
A good old campaigner named Mohawk helped her learn the ropes of barrel racing, and her admittedly ‘super competitive’ streak kicked in, so she was soon competing at amateur rodeos. Meantime, she was also working a lot on Sonic, whose cow sense seemed to develop before her speed. “She was so cowy, and wanted to stop, but didn’t have much run. We sent her for some rope horse training and got a call one day, telling us this horse could run! When we got her home, she took back to the barrels like nobody’s business and ran away with things from there.” By 2017, the ranch had a sensible eight-year-old horse, useful for moving cows, team roping in either header or heeler positions or even roping calves. But when Diane cracked out with her at the Camrose Spring Rodeo and clocked fast enough to win, the scale tipped towards Sonic’s barrel racing career. After some pondering, Skocdopole took the plunge, buying her pro card right away. Then at Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO COURTESY CPRA/MIKE COPEMAN
FOR TEAM ROPING!
PHOTO COURTESY DIANE SKOCDOPOLE
C.P.R.A.
the Daines Ranch, they were the fastest in a large and tough field of racers. “I was thinking this was probably an okay decision to take a chance and come to the pro rodeos. I think my horse can fit in here.” Consistent placings, plus good paydays at both Jasper and Pincher Creek, not to mention a second-place finish at the rich K-Days Rodeo in Edmonton, finally got Skocdopole thinking about a trip to the CFR. Then doing well at the Grass Roots Finals in Calgary put the icing on the cake for her to claim the rookie title for Canada. “It’s a huge deal — at my age, you don’t get to be rookie at very many things anymore,” she laughs. Then in Edmonton, after picking up her very first trophy buckles for the CPRA Rookie and Permit honours, she added a third buckle as the first go-round winner. “Having been there with Dale, I knew what to expect at Edmonton. I was incredibly relaxed, actually, before my run. Just go do our thing, our comfort zone.” Skocdopole finished her inaugural pro season fifth in Canada, with earnings of $40,446, picking up $17,825 of that at the CFR. cowboycountrymagazine.com
OPPOSITE PAGE: The first CFR appearance for both horse and rider, Sonic smoked the field in 14.695 and earned Skocdopole her first go-round buckle ABOVE: Sonic being used for some relaxing cattle work at home. She is the sorrel in the centre of the photo, above.
“I’m not quite sure how I’m going to follow that up!” smiles Skocdopole. “It was definitely over and above what I could’ve ever thought was possible. Sonic never seemed to weaken. The more you go, the happier she was to have a job to do, nothing seemed to bother her. She takes it in stride and away she goes. For her to step into this stage and be able to hold her own is unbelievably amazing. She surprises me all the time.” But don’t be thinking such success has turned Sonic into a prima donna. She still enjoys her ranch work time. “For her, I know if I start to have a few issues barrel racing with her, we just go to heading a few steers on her. It brings her right back for me, gets her body correct. It is the secret to make her the horse she is, I truly believe that.” Skocdopole plans a similar rodeo trail this year, although she did take out her WPRA card, ‘just in case’. The family’s shared rodeo passion means there will usually be two rigs heading out of the yard, likely in opposite directions, for much of the year. Son Coy is 12 now and quit hockey this winter so he could rope more. He’ll be busy with the Wrangler Junior rodeos and plans to rope with his Dad on the amateur scene. Whatever this rodeo season brings, Diane Skocdopole is sure of one thing — the attitude of gratitude she wants to bring to the arena each and every run. “I think that’s so important, just to remember the joy and why you’re doing it. Do it because you love it, and I want to stick with that mentality. It’s the nature of our event — your horse is your everything, so just be grateful for every time you get to run, and never over expect anything out of them.” c
55
Pro Rodeo Canada Insider
DEVIN WIGEMYR FAMILY TRADITION By TIM ELLIS
T
HERE REALLY WAS NEVER ANY DOUBT. IN HIS MIND, DEVIN WIGEMYR HAD ALWAYS
KNOWN HE’D BE A TEAM ROPER. AND GIVEN HIS PEDIGREE, THERE SHOULDN’T HAVE BEEN A DOUBT HE WOULD END UP COMPETING AMONG THE BEST IN THE SPORT.
“I’ve been brainwashed to do this since I was a little kid,” suggests the 23-year-old heeler from Brooks, Alta. “I played hockey for a few years but watching him, I became pretty excited to do this.” 56
“Him” is dad, Dwight, a decorated team roper who twice has been presented with a Canadian Professional Rodeo Association champion heeler’s buckle at the end of the week-long Canadian Finals Rodeo. His first title came in 2002 when Devin was seven years old — his second came six years later in 2008. “I’ve been going to the CFR since I was a wee little kid roping people’s feet,” begins the younger Wigemyr, who qualified for his first Finals in 2016. “He gave me lots of advice and words of wisdom before I roped in Edmonton.” “I hate to rope against that guy anytime. He still whups on me in the arena. I’d rather rope with him instead of against him, but I picked the wrong end. But it’s cool.” Wigemyr followed up his CFR debut by qualifying for the Finals a second straight season in 2017, an historical year for his group with even money paid out to both header and heeler. “We don’t know what struggles they went through back then,” offers the 2014 Canadian Cowboys Association champion. “They ate some crow to get to where we are now.” He continues. “My dad, Murray Linthicum, Rocky Dallyn, Travis Gallais, Ronald Schmidt — they paved the way for us. I remember my dad had some really
good Finals and won a lot. But now, I can place fourth and almost win as much.” In fact, when Dwight and Daryn Knapp won the 2002 team roping championship, they were paid a combined $11,048 for the week. Last November at Rexall Place, each roper was handed $11,213 to win a round. The elder Wigemyr won $35,729 in his career at the CFR in eight appearances from 2000–2009. In his two trips to the Finals, Devin has already pocketed $22,800. But while the money has changed, getting advice from the veterans has not. “Rollie has roped with me since I was 13,” says Wigemyr of current team roping partner, Roland McFadden, who’s qualified for the CFR eight times and won the 2015 Canadian heading championship. “He was giving me chances before anyone else was. It goes a lot further than just roping in the arena.” It’s entirely possible the 32-year-old McFadden is actually passing along some of the same advice Devin has already been given. “I roped with his dad a lot,” confirms McFadden. “I was looking for a partner, and I didn’t want to pass on the opportunity to rope with Devin. It’s paid off, it’s been really good.” c
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO COURTESY CPRA/MIKE COPEMAN
Devin Wigemyr (heeler) and header partner Roland McFadden nanoseconds away from second place money for their 5.1 second time in the first round of the 2017 Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton
ROAD TO THE CFR
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Advance Tickets: 5 Days of Exhibition are on sale Check our website for more information:
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PHOTO CREDITS © 2016: DCEA
PRODUCTION HORSE SALE FOR SID COOK P
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40 Top Quality 2 - 6 year old well broke & well started horses from some of southern Alberta’s top quarter horse bloodlines
August 25, 2018 Preview and Showing at 10:00 am Sale at 1:30 pm Nanton Ag Society Rodeo Grounds With Guest Consignors Rocking P Ranch Blake Schlosser Two C Ranch
Adults 3 day package $62.00 Advance ticket price until July 24 A|B|J|K $20.00 Premium seating $25.00 Children $14.00
Thursday, July 26 - 5pm Friday, July 27 - 8pm Saturday, July 28 - 1:30pm
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
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CLOWNIN’ AROUND | CRASH COOPER
Ash Cooper Art and Ranch Gallery
Anatomy of a Cowboy’s Brain
HorsesCo
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The Spirit of the West radio program
COWBOY CHURCHES Nechako Valley Cowboy Church
Last Sun. of every month, 7 p.m., Nechako Community Church Building, Hwy 16 E, Vanderhoof, B.C., 250‑567‑4960
Open Valley Cowboy Church
Every Sun., 6:30 p.m., Head of the Lake Hall, past the O’Keefe Ranch on Hwy 97, Vernon, B.C., 250‑503‑0707
Boomtown Trail Cowboy Church
2nd and last Wed. of every month, 7 p.m., Elnora Drop‑In Centre, Elnora, Alta., 403‑749‑2047
Clearwater Cowboy Church
Every Thur., 7 p.m., Dovercourt Hall, Hwy 22, north of Caroline, Alta., 403-844-6641
Community Cowboy Church
Every Tue., 7-8 p.m., Niton Community Hall, Main St., Niton, Alta., 780-795-2326
Cowboy Trail Church
Celebrating 26 Years Hear it on your favorite Radio Station or on demand at Hugh-McLennan.com
Every Tue., 7 p.m., Cochrane Ranche House, 101 Ranchehouse Rd., Cochrane, Alta., 403‑638‑4254
Heartland Cowboy Church
1st and 3rd Tue. of every month, 7 p.m., Stettler Agriplex, 4516‑52 St., Stettler, Alta., 403‑742‑4273
Millarville Cowboy Church
2nd and 4th Thur. of every month, 7:30 p.m., South of Calgary at Hwy 22 and Hwy 549 east near the racetrack turn off, Millarville, Alta., 403‑931‑1618
Pipestone Cowboy — Cowgirl Church
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2nd Mon. of every month, 7 p.m., Pipestone Café, Hwy 795, 11 km north from junction Hwy 13 and 795, Pipestone, Alta., 780-312-8653
Ranchman’s Cowboy Church
Every Sun., 10 a.m. Ranchman’s Restaurant, 9615 MacLeod Tr. SW, Calgary, Alta., 403‑882‑3239
St. Albert Cowboy Church
Every Fri., 7 p.m., 60 Liberton Dr., St. Albert, Alta., 780-459-2222
The Cowboy Church
Every Fri., 7:30 p.m., Centre Park Church, 52 Peacock Dr., Sherwood Park, Alta., 780‑918‑5530
Viking Cowboy Church
Last Fri. of every month, 7:30 p.m., Viking Auction Market, junction of Hwy 26 and 36, Viking, Alta., 780‑384‑2114
Willow Valley Cowboy Church
2nd Sun. of every month 10:00 a.m., 26016 Hwy 595, 15 km east of Red Deer, Red Deer County, Alta., 403-347-0206
Battlefords Cowboy Church
WaterPro™2
1st and 3rd Thur. of every month, 7 p.m., Legion Hall, 22 St., Battleford, Sask., 306-937-2733
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Diamond C Cowboy Church
Every Tue., 7:30 p.m., 208 Sidney St., Maple Creek, Sask., 306‑662‑3431
Cowboy Valley Church 800.874.8494 60
www.tru-test.com
4054 PR 432 Morden, Man., 204-822-9909
Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
UPCOMING WESTERN ART SHOWS & AUCTIONS 2018
It is not what we have in life, but who we have in our life that matters.
44th Annual Western Art Show & Sale May 26–28, 2018 phippenartmuseum.org
Way Out West Fest Jun 1–3, 2018 wayoutwestfest.ca
Greeley Stampede Western Art Show Jun 22– Jul 4, 2018 greeleystampede.org
Visions of the West Art Show & Sale Jun 29–Jul 2, 2018 ponokastampede.com
Western Showcase Calgary Stampede Jul 6–15, 2018 westernshowcase.com
Cheyenne Frontier Western Art Show Jul 19–29, 2018 cfdartshow.com
Heart of the West Art Show Aug 10–12, 2018 heartofthewest.com
The West Fine Art Show Sep 21–23, 2018 westart.ca
Cowboy Crossings
Specializing in Rodeo, Ranch & Humourous Fine Artworks! Now showing at our new gallery in Senlac, Saskatchewan Open Sundays from 1 - 5 pm
CRASHCOOPER.COM Follow Ash Cooper Art and Ranch Gallery
Oct 4, 2018 – Jan 6, 2019 nationalcowboymuseum.org
You might love your saddle! But what does your horse think?
2019 BCCHS Art of the West Show March 14–17, 2019 bcchs.com
Western Saddle Fit
Western Art Week
The Basics
March 20–24, 2019 visitgreatfallsmontana.org/event/ western-art-week
Out West Art Show
A 67 minute DVD that teaches what makes a Western saddle fit & how to check your own saddle for fit
Cattlemen’s Western Art Show & Sale
From Rod & Denise Nikkel Custom tree makers for over 20 years
March 20–23, 2019 outwestartshow.com
March 29–31, 2019 cattlemenswesternartshow.com
westernsaddlefit.com
Desert Caballeros Western Museum Cowgirl Up! 2019 dates TBA westernmuseum.org
Western Spirit Art Show 2019 dates TBA oldwestmuseum.org
The Russell Exhibition & Sale 2019 dates TBA cmrussell.org
Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale 2019 dates TBA coorswesternart.com
National Fine Art Show & Auction 2019 dates TBA westernartassociation.org
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COWBOY POETRY
First Waltz By TERRI MASON
All his life he’s been there for his daughter He’d hold her and rock her to sleep And waltz her around in the kitchen To a long-forgot 3 a.m. beat Now those old memories are returning As he slowly walks her to your side He’ll step back when the first song starts playing
I wrote this poem for my niece, Chandra, and her groom, Jason. I recited it at her wedding reception (decades ago now) and she dissolved into tears. I deemed that a success!
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Canadian Cowboy Country June/July 2018
PHOTO COURTESY STOCK.ADOBE.COM/BONNIE-C-MARQUETTE
For he’s had the first waltz with the bride
ONE OF tHiS yEAR’S FEAtuREd SALE CONSigNMENtS ®
BOZEMAN, MONTANA
Tr judges doll (2016 Bay Mare By judge cash × Tr dashing Badger) Thank you To The ThoMas ranch for puTTing This really nice filly in our sale
TR DASHING BADGER “Dolly” with Jill Moody
• Lifetime Earnings for Dolly exceed $850,000. • Dolly is a 4× NFR Qualifier. • Multiple Go-Round Winner. • 2× NFR Average Winner. • Past NFR 10 round average arena record holder. • Dolly is a 2× Reserve World Champion
Dolly has alreaDy proven herself as a brooDmare nb ladybird (2014 M by Shawne Bug Leo) 2018 Diamonds & Dirt Reserve, placed BRR Finals Futurity Average and 2nd Go $42,000+ LTE heavens Illuminator (2014 G by Dash Ta Heaven) $15,000 LTE famous Illusion (2013 S by Dash Ta Fame) $10,000 LTE Tr Dollys famous Dash (2013 S by Dash Ta Fame) 1D and Rodeo Money Earner The laTe greaT juDge cash has barrel racIng earners of more Than $1.3 mIllIon anD raceTrack earners of more Than $1 mIllIon Including 3 NFR Qualifiers—Quick Judge, Judge Buy Cash and KG Justiceweexpected. He is the maternal grandsire of An Oakie With Cash (“Louie”).
SAVE THE DATE AUGUST 11, 2018 BOZEMAN MONTANA
CSR PERFORMANCE HORSE SALE
OUR SALE WILL FEATURE PROSPECTS BY THESE OUTSTANDING SIRES Darkelly • PC Frenchmans Hayday • UR One Famous Rebel • The Red Dasher Dash Ta Fame • Frenchmans Fabulous • Louisiana Senator • Feature Mr Bojangles Winners Version • Flaming Firewater • Frenchmans Guy • A Smooth Guy Woodbridge • Judge Cash • Slick By Design • TR Illumniator Cash And CSR Stallions—Firewater Canyon, Furyofthewind and Prime Talent To see all of CSR’s reference mares, our sires and outstanding lineup of ranch mares visit CopperSpringRanch.com
Calgary • Cochrane • Edmonton • Fort Saskatchewan • Spruce Grove • Red Deer • Lethbridge • Banff • Camrose Medicine Hat • Lloydminster • Olds • Strathmore • West Kelowna • Kamloops • Prince Albert • Regina