Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo a Success on all Fronts

Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo a Success on all Fronts

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

The Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo that was held at the Conrad Schinkinger Memorial Grounds July 9 and 10 was a success on all fronts.

From the highly anticipated rodeo events to the fun-filled kids rodeo to the children’s activity zone to the country dances to the combine demolition derby.

The Combine Crunch, which marked its 10th anniversary, is a definite “fan favourite” for sure, stated Shelley Loren, Rodeo Chair and Vice President of the Lamont & District Agricultural Society.

Loren attributes the popularity of the event to its uniqueness. On July 9, Loren said there were well over 1,000 people who came to watch the massive smash up of the agricultural implements. The finals were held July 10, and Lamont area resident Ethan Nimchuk won the championship and took home just over $3,800 in prize money. The runner up was Dakota Procyk.

Nimchuk said he had watched the Combine Crunch in previous years and decided to give it a go this year. He purchased a 1979 White 8900 model from his neighbour Dwayne Chudyk and worked hard preparing his ride for the signature event.

Combine Crunch action July 10.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

“The last 10 days of work paid off,” said Ethan, who was elated along with family members, friends and fans. The 18-year-old was all smiles after being declared champion. “I was happy to put on a show,” added Nimchuk, who celebrated his victory with a few bottles of his favourite iced tea.

Nimchuk was also the runner up in the ‘Grudge Match’ that was held after the championship final. Top honours, however, were earned by Owen Glover who earned $1,000 for his efforts.

Kayden Jones, who picked Nimchuk to win the championship had his photo taken with the winner. Kayden’s brother Carter Jones picked Glover to win the consolation, and he also had his photo taken with the winner of that event. Their mom said they come out to Lamont every year to watch the event and was very excited about the boys’ choices and all the fun they had cheering on the contestants.

Addy Smith, left, with sister Avery Smith at the Petting Zoo.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Loren said a total of 2,100 fans attended Saturday’s rodeo performance and approximately 1,300 for Sunday’s performance. “It was very well received.”

To put on an event of this size is no small feat. Loren said they had about 60 volunteers as well as local service groups to assist in their efforts. The community-based organizations included: Lamont Veselka Dancers, Northlands 4-H Multi Club, Ardrossan Bisons Football Club, Lamont Curling Club, Lamont Fish & Game Association, and Lamont County Family and Community Support Services.

Loren noted that it was Lamont based KG Enterprises that was “instrumental” in the planning and securing sponsors for the large-scale event which turned out to be a massive success.