Sloppy, Wet 2016 Stampede Over

My medical issues prevented me from volunteering at this year's edition of the Calgary Stampede.

I usually help out in the Agrium Ag-tivity in the City area for at least four or five of the ten days.  I was sorry I wasn't able to help out this year.  It was definitely a challenge running the show this year under monsoon-like conditions.

Folks were calling the "Greatest Outdoor Show Under Water and Mud"!  I watched the rodeo on TV.  A shout out goes to the CBC for their excellent ten day rodeo coverage.  I was little disappointed that no Canadian cowboys took home the biggest prize money, but a number of them did do well with day money and pool prizes.  A shout-out goes to Kirk Sutherland who won the $100,000 Chuckwagon race!

One thing I was most pleased and proud of is the fact that no animals were seriously hurt during this Stampede.  Having worked down at Stampede Park for many years, I know that animal welfare and safety ranks very high in the Stampede's creed.  All animals participating in the show are checked by a small army of vets every day.  Living conditions and care are inspected regularly.  The Stampede must be very proud of their record in animal safety and welfare.

I'm sure other shows will sit up and take notice.  The Calgary Stampede once again leads the way!  

Let's pray for a much drier 2017 Calgary Stampede!

'Ya Hoo!' for the 2015 Calgary Stampede!

"Ya Hoo!" is the call (actually the paddle signs) of Harry the Horse!  Calgary is famous for its Stampede, and the 2015 edition of that event started on Friday and is now in full swing! 

I watched the Stampede Parade on TV.  I got a chuckle over the CBC narrators who were brought in from Eastern Canada to describe the parade.  I hope they get to spend more time here, to get a real feeling of who Western Canadians are.

I'm less involved with the Stampede this year.  I usually volunteer down at Stampede Park almost every day of the ten day festival.  This year, projects here at home in Beiseker are limiting my time in the city.  I plan to volunteer a couple of days this coming week but that's about it!  

This is the second year of the agricultural exhibitors using the new Agrium Western Events Centre at Stampede Park.  I hope you get a chance to check it out.  I'm anxious to see it in operation this year too because Aggie Days is moving in there for its 2016 show!  I'm excited about the move.

I enjoy the Stampede Rodeo and the "Chucks," and I hope to take in at least one running of those events. Otherwise I will be watching the excellent coverage on CBC.  Overall, it's shaping up to be a great Stampede.  I hope you get a chance to take part in the annual festival!