The 51st annual Lions Labour Day Rodeo committee is still looking to the community to help make Cochrane’s biggest weekend of the year a success.
“We still need volunteers and there are still a few sponsorship opportunities available,” said rodeo chair Kevin Firkus, adding that due to the economy, the sponsorship amounts are down.
In the spirit of Canada 150 celebrations and the Lions Club International’s 100th year, the Lions are hoping to break last year’s gates numbers - estimated at around 13,000 people.
“Last year, nearly $25,000 was raised through the rodeo and went back into the community,” said Firkus.
Each year, the Lions put tens, or even hundreds, of thousands into initiatives such as the Jayman BUILT Aquatic Centre to baseball teams and bowling leagues.
Beginning with the ranch rodeo on Friday night, the “toughest amateur rodeo around,” that will draw competitors from across Western Canada, the U.S. and even Australia to participate in the Foothills Cowboy Association-sanctioned event.
The events spanning over the weekend will come to a close on the afternoon of Sept. 4, following the 49th annual Labour Day Parade.
As always, the Monday finale is celebrated by the Lions as a day to pay homage to the military – and rodeo goers are asked to wear red shirts in honour of all those who have served.
Firkus said it’s the one event of the year where each of the 32 Lions Club members roll up their sleeves and commit to pitch in – usually joined by spouses, as well around 20 members of the Cochrane Lioness Club and members from Cochrane and area Lions clubs.
The recently opened Cochrane Lions Event Centre (former curling club) on 5th Avenue will be used to host an indoor market on the Sunday and Monday – with vendor spots still available, as well as the Saturday night dance with the Allen Christie Band and 4Good.
Tickets price are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and teens and free for youth under 12.
Learn more at cochranerodeo.com.
