Rodeo Action From End to End of the News Advertiser Region

Bruce Stampede Fun for Everyone!

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

The Bruce Stampede was back and bigger than ever this past weekend.

Good crowds were on hand for both the family rodeo on Saturday afternoon as well as Sunday afternoon for the pro rodeo.

Robbie Chomik, President of the Bruce Stampede Association, said 1,400 attended Saturday’s rodeo and 3,000 attended Sunday’s rodeo. He added that around 525 people attended the dance on Saturday evening. As well, an estimated 400 people attended the pancake breakfasts on Sunday morning at the community centre and at the Stampede grounds.

Pablo Robles wrestling the steer.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Chomik said he was happy with the turn out, especially considering there were a number of other events happening in the area. Even a big rain Friday evening and late afternoon on Sunday couldn’t postpone any of the activities from taking place.

One new addition to the Stampede were the trick riders’ performance before the Sunday afternoon pro rodeo. Chomik said it was very well received by fans. Having Darryl Sutter as an honoured guest was also a special touch that afternoon as he participated in the grand entry aboard the Bruce Stampede wagon.

Chet Deitz competing in the bareback event.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Chomik said the family rodeo on Saturday is always very popular and families enjoy being able to participate altogether in the event which features a variety of special things like the greased pig, wild pony, mule race and cow milking; just to name a few.

Bertina Olafson competing in the ladies barrel racing.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

It takes many volunteers to run all of the events, and Chomik said it wouldn’t be possible to hold the Bruce Stampede without them and the support of the community and sponsors. He is grateful to all who pitched in to make the event success and hopes to see all of them back next year.

Smoky Lake Stampede Jam-Packed with Excitement and Entertainment

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

The Smoky Lake Stampede was jam-packed with exciting events and plenty of entertainment for rodeo fans on July 30 and 31.

In addition to the traditional events, there were some old cowboy games and fun-filled kids’ activities to keep things interesting between rodeo performances. The rescue and hide race were a smash hit with the crowd and the stick horse barrel races, frisbee scramble, mutton busting and wild pony races were met with eagerness from the all of the participants and drew enthusiastic responses from the crowd.

Steer wrestling competitor.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

The rodeo action was hosted by the Smoky Lake Riding Club, (SLRC) and co-sponsored by the Smoky Lake Agricultural Society. A good crowd was on hand for the steak supper that was hosted by the H.A. Kostash School 2023 Grad Class at the Smoky Lake Complex Saturday evening. The night was capped off with a dance featuring Southern Cross.

“This year was so amazing because of the amazing support from our fans, our sponsors, our members and our community after having to take two years off due to Covid regulations,” said SLRC Secretary Marquie Bromley.

Mutton busting competition.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

“So many people showed up to support our rodeo on Saturday and many people toughed out the rain on Sunday to cheer on the competitors,” said Bromley. Estimated attendance over the two days was pegged at 1,400 people.

Other members of the executive that assisted Bromley were: President Geoff Montgomery, Vice President Kale Bromley and Treasurer Lydia Cielin.

Novice horse riding competitor.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

It was a mad dash in the Rodeo Frisbee competition.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

“Outside of the executive there were around 30 community members who made the Smoky Lake Stampede happen! Then we had other clubs helping us out like the Kinette Club of Smoky Lake and the Smoky Lake School of Dance,” added Bromley.