By CHARLES TWEED
Normally, seeing a pair of aces get cracked by 3-4 off-suit would send a poker player into a frenzy, leading to them question the card gods — but not during the fun casino organized by the Alberta High School Rodeo Finals Committee and Blindman High School Rodeo Club.
“We had a very successful and fun night but the final figures aren’t in yet,” said event organizer Lisa Smith. “The money raised goes to support various aspects of the Alberta High School Rodeo Finals that have been held the second weekend in June at the Ponoka Stampede Grounds for approximately the last eight years.”
The March 25 event saw competitors play for chips that could be used to buy a variety of donated items from various businesses. The event also added Crack the Code, where contestants tried to crack a seven-digit code for a chance to win $100,000 worth of Ford trucks. Unfortunately no one walked away with the prize but Denham Ford and Brentridge Ford did donate all of the proceeds to the rodeo.
“We strive to put on a top-notch rodeo for the high school finals qualifiers which includes awarding trophy saddles for the winners of each of the events. Fundraising events like our casino night allow us to do that. Thanks to all our generous sponsors, bidders and attendees — it wouldn’t be a success without them,” added Smith.