By Tiffany Williams
Editor
The 72nd annual Ponoka Stampede will honour members of the Canadian armed forces with their theme ‘Saluting the Armed Forces.’
President of the Ponoka Stampede Association Blake Butterfield thought it was important to recognize those who are serving and who have served in the armed forces.
“It is because of them we can do what we are doing,” said Butterfield.” With what is going on in today’s society you have to remember what they are doing. Right or wrong it’s not their decision and they believe what they are doing.”
The Ponoka Stampede will start on June 25 and end on July 1. It will include seven days of pro rodeo action and professional chuckwagons. There will be plenty of entertainment including George Cayon, Shane Yellowbird and Gord Bamford.
“I think in today’s economy the prices are very reasonable for non-stop entertainment,” said Butterfield. “We try to keep our prices down because we like families to come because in 15 years that is who our fan base will be.”
The Ponoka Stampede is one of the best rodeos and in 2007 they were the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association rodeo of the year and the 2007 World Professional Chuckwagon Association committee of the year. Two awards that Butterfield is very pleased with because the contestants vote on them.
“People appreciate coming to our nice facilities. We work hard to keep our track in good shape and the prize money is a big factor as well.”
The cash will be a huge draw for the more than 500 cowboys who will compete in the stampede. On the last day alone there will be thousands of dollars up for grab including $10,000 in the Showdown Competition and $50,000 in the Tommy Dorchester Dash For Cash. Stay tuned to the Ponoka News for more information on the upcoming rodeo.