This week one of Cochrane's favourite events was given a national reminder that out of 81 events nationwide, the annual Cochrane Classic Bull Riding – with its rank bulls and top riders – is worth its weight in gold after winning Event of the Year for 2018. Founder/organizer Jason Borton has been beaming ear-to-ear all week since receiving the ultimate honour from Bull Riders Canada (BRC) – the largest Canadian-owned and operated bull riding company in Canada. "It's not just Cochrane Classic that should be proud – it's the whole community," said Borton, admitting he is still overwhelmed that an event that began with a handful of boys, brawn and bulls has dreamed big and continued to grow 18 years and running strong. Borton tips his hat to his strong base of 30 to 40 volunteers who help the event come off without a hitch year after year. He is also glad to be a part of the annual Cochrane Fair at the Ag Society grounds and is grateful to have the space and facilities to foster the event to continue to grow in the years to come, since relocating to the site three years ago. "There's so many parts to this ... year 20 is going to be really big," said Borton, who wants to make sure that the 20th anniversary in 2020 will be one for the books. "They do a fantastic job promoting their event they are able to tangibly give back to the community," said BRC president Russell Friend. Since the formation of BRC six years ago, the organization has been doling out awards on an annual basis. Friend explained that four years ago they decided to incorporate "empirical and measurable criteria" to standardize their award criteria. Included in the criteria: impact to local region/area and association with other agricultural events or fairs; how financial proceeds help the greater community; infrastructure (think arena and gate conditions, washroom facilities, ease of access); how bull riders are treated (water and snacks, a friendly welcome); and how the event is marketed and kept top of mind in the community before and after the actual event takes place. The Cochrane Classic beat out the Boyz & Bullz event in Ericsdale, Man. who came in second. There was a tie for third place between Airdrie's Bikes & Bulls and Mayhem in Meadow in Meadow Lake, Sask. Learn more at bullriderscanada.ca.
