4-H members from throughout Rocky View County (RVC) participated in the 18th annual Calgary Stampede 4-H rodeo Aug. 22 and 23, not only competing in rodeo events but also taking advantage of the opportunity to learn more about animal care and proper techniques.
“There are two days of competition, with events in the afternoon and clinics and information sessions in the mornings,” said Kristina Barnes, communications manager of western events and agriculture with the Calgary Stampede.
“It really brings together 4-H members and gives them a chance to learn proper animal care and handling, which is really important for the Stampede because we want to make sure things are done the right way and the animals are kept as safe as possible.”
Participants also had the opportunity to opt out of morning sessions Aug. 22 and help out with the Giddy Up rodeo instead, Barnes said.
This event gives special needs kids the opportunity to take part in the rodeo, and 4-H members have the chance to participate as Cowboy Buddies for some of the Giddy Up rodeo competitors.
“It’s totally voluntary, but it’s really nice that the kids have that option,” Barnes said. “There are so many ways for 4-H members to participate in this event, it’s kind of a learning experience and a competition all in the same weekend.”
According to Barnes, introducing 4-H members to the rodeo environment is an important step in their development as competitors. It’s also a great opportunity for them to win prizes – including much-coveted Calgary Stampede 4-H rodeo belt buckles.
“Those are the things that everyone wants, but we have some pretty great prizes that are more specific to their events,” Barnes said. “It’s nice because as they move on to other competitions, they’ll have something kind of special to remember this one by.”
Nearly 70 competitors from 4-H clubs throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan, and even British Columbia competed in the event, including 10 members from RVC – primarily clubs in the Airdrie and Cochrane areas.
“There are some really great up-and-coming rodeo talents in this region, and this event is always a great opportunity for people to come out and see them in action,” Barnes said. “We hold this event in our Agrium Western Event Centre, which is an amazing state-of-the-art facility and it’s absolutely perfect for this event.”
“It’s a fantastic competition every year, and we at the Calgary Stampede are thrilled to continue offering this opportunity to the region’s youth.”
