Rodeo is near and dear to the hearts of many Central Albertans, and those with a penchant for it won’t want to miss the annual Cowboy Classic Finals Rodeo set to run Oct. 8-10 at Westerner Park.
Hosted by the Foothills Cowboys Association, the slate of activities kicks off at noon on Oct. 8 when the rodeo office opens.
Rodeo performances get underway at 7 p.m. with second and third performances slated for Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. respectively.
A fourth runs Sunday at 1 p.m.
Categories includes everything from saddle bronc, bareback, junior bull-riding and bull-riding to junior barrel racing, boys’ steer riding and novice horse riding.
Participants are coming from all across the province to take part. There are even a couple of participants all the way from New Zealand – Joe Fentiman and Stuart deRidder and one from Australia – Luke Quartermaine.
There are also a number of new features this year, including a live cabaret after the rodeo on Friday evening as well as the popular cowboy auction.
It’s called ‘Dancin’ in the Dirt’ with Tera Lee, one part of the morning show on KG Country. Rodeo tickets also provide entrance into the cabaret.
There will also be the Cowboy Classic Kick Off Party hosted by Billy Bob’s Country Music Dance Hall. Singer Denver Daines will kick off the Cowboy Classic with his own range of original country tunes.
The Foothills Cowboy Association was formed back in 1955 by a group of ranchers. Organizers say it provides rodeo families the chance to compete in a local rodeo circuit of events across the province. The organization is also recognized by the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association, which allows FCA members who finish in the top two in the finals in his or her event to purchase a professional rodeo membership.
All the rodeo action takes place in the Stockmen’s Pavilion at Westerner Park, and all shows are $10 per person.
Tickets are available at the door or in advance at Jones Boys Saddlery & Western Wear.
For more information, check out www.fcarodeo.com or call 403-652-1405.
