Day 3 for Pool B was actually better than expected after last night’s rain.  It was rather cool outside, but the arena conditions weren’t bad and there were fast times and high scores in every event.  Tammy Fischer smoked through the barrel pattern once again to win the round.  A few of the horses ran a little scared, more than likely from the previous days poor conditions.  It takes some horses a few runs to get their confidence back after a bad go around the barrels.  I put my horse, Repete in this category.  She is only 6 years old and not seasoned in the world of rodeo yet.  The ground has been completely different each of out three runs so far.  That being said, she still placed 4th today for another $2500 check.  I was not thrilled with her run, but am proud of her for trying.  This is a lot to ask of a horse her age and she is a trooper!!!  So far we are 5th  for total money won in our pool, so if we don’t kick it up a notch tomorrow we will be running on “loser Saturday” as the cowboys are calling it!!!  Thanks again to the committee here at Calgary for working at making the conditions safe for us contestants.

I got to watch some wagon races last night and meet some people who were watching them for the first time.  It is amazing how we get sucked into the excitement of them.  There is so much going on at one time on the track…20 men, 32 horses, 4 wagons…all fighting for the lead!!!  The crowd certainly does love it and its easy to see why.

I have also been enjoying my share of fair food since I have been here.  My favorites?  Mini Donuts and Pineapple whip.  I haven’t been out and about in the city yet.  I think I am still wore out after a busy 4th of July rodeo run and it has been nice relaxing in the trailer at night…well, trying to.  I am parked right next to the backstretch of the track so there is a lot of noise.  The upside is that I can watch the wagons come around the corner in the races!

If you’re reading this and not here to experience the Calgary Stampede for yourself, YOU ARE MISSING OUT!!!  It really is the greatest outdoor show on EARTH!

By: Justin

There is no doubt that the Stampede puts on a great rodeo. The stock and cowboys are all top notch.  However the rodeo is more than just a rodeo…it’s ONE BIG PARTY!!! The atmosphere is undeniably electric with everyone in the grandstand looking to have a great time and meet new friends. Where else can you be sipping wine with dignitaries then turn around and slam a beer with the guy that just rode the horns off of a two thousand pound farm animal to the tune of 90 points!!!  Everyone from politicians, to cowboys, to city slickers, to that special someone you met last night in Nashville North can be seen taking in the rodeo. Stampede is not complete without a trip down to the afternoon grandstand and if not for the rodeo, go for the party and the people watching. I guarantee you will not regret it! (more…)

By Nicole Mosher

Looking for a little Western Culture without boots? The youth Stampede Talent Search is a great event with some serious talent. Hosted by Beezley (radio personality), this high caliber event in the plush seating Boyce Theatre (yes, a great place to go to let those feet recover) add some serious entertainment value for your Stampede dollar! The competition takes place all week at 7:30pm (except Wednesday) as well as additional performers at Jaycee Park and the Window on the West Stage throughout the daytime. I was really impressed, and I’m sure you will be too. Swing by to pick your favorite and cheer them on through the week.

Auditions for the competition took place in the spring. Seventy contestants were chosen to compete during Stampede for cash prizes.  Judges select 28 semi-finalists for Thursday and Friday night, and 14 Finalists on Saturday night. (more…)

No wonder everybody loves this rodeo. It is a favorite for every contestant here. Everyday I get to rope for lots of money, and they pay the top five out of ten guys. The last two days have been good for me, I was able to win 5th both days and earn $3000.  My family has a great tradition here also. My grandfather competed here in the 1920’s and won the Bareback Riding and Bull Riding twice each. In fact he gave me the saddle that he won in 1923. My father also roped calves here all through the 1970’s and 1980’s. I am very proud to compete at the Calgary Stampede and I appreciate everyone that takes part in the production.

See you soon

DEAN

By Sarah

One of the best parts about walking around the Stampede grounds is the random comings-and-goings of acts, artists and performances. Just yesterday I turned a corner and stumbled upon the Stampede Outrider Band performing for a growing crowd just outside the Dream Home. Playing popular tunes like “Wild Wild West” and “Rebel Yell”, they certainly got the crowd moving!

Well we just passed the midway point of this years Stampede and things just keep changing.  Obrey Motowylo keeps burning up the track, that could be the best outfit on the grounds right now.  There were some costly penalties last night for a few of my drivers, and a few other guys that I am not riding for.  Rae Croteau took 5 seconds last night, but he is still not out of it, and Doug Irvine took 3 seconds which really set us back.  We ran in the mud again, but I think the anticipation of it is worse thatn the actual running through it.  The infield footing was good so all in all, things were pretty good.  I see my good friend Dustin Gorst hobbling around on crutches, which is amazing in itself.  Dustin has been the top CPCA outrider that past few years, and he survived a brutal wreck here about 2 weeks ago.  He was run over by 2 wagons, broke his femur on one leg and shin bone on the other.  He is lucky to be alive, so we can all thank our lucky stars for that, the thought of it makes me cringe.  Whats funny about chuckwagon competitors is when you get hurt, which will happen eventually, the first thing you do is thank the Good Lord, and the second thing you do is try to figure out how quick you can get back on the track again.  I know it is driving him nuts to have to sit and watch, but he will be back, that man is a cowboy.  Another guy who defines tough is Chad Cosgrave.  He broke his back this winter, and nobody expected him to even be close to riding this year, but, there he is back in the saddle like he never missed a beat.  I know he is still hurting, but you will never hear him complain.  I guess we all take Ron David’s chuckwagon prayer to heart, when it says “the life we choose and the life we live.”  I wouldn’t have it any other way.  Thank You. 

By: Heather Ilsley

There’s no question that the rodeo is one of the more popular things to do during Stampede. It’s pretty exciting to watch the cowboys/cowgirls compete against the clock and each other. I decided to check it out and brought a friend who has never seen the rodeo before.

His first question was “Are these guys crazy?”  And, to be honest, sometimes I think they are! Rodeo is a sport with a high injury rate and you’ve got to be pretty brave to get on the back of a bucking horse, hang on for dear life with one hand, all while making sure your technique and style is impressing the judges. (more…)

Entertainment

Reba performs at the Pengrowth Saddledome tonight and Terri Clark is putting on a show free with admission on the Coca-Cola stage at 9 p.m. Also on the Coca-Cola Stage are some favourite children’s characters including a Playdate with Max & Ruby, Miss Spider and Bananas in Pyjamas hosted by the Fairly OddParents at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Hide your Deep-Fried Oreos, the Cookie Monster will be at Jaycee Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. today.

Rodeo

Rodeo continues today at 1:30 p.m. with all six major rodeo events including Wild Pony Racing. In Wild Pony Racing, teams of three youngsters have a blast as they take to the arena in a timed version of the Stampede Horse Race.

Western Art Auction

The Western Art Auction features 85 pieces of original art by Canadian and American artists including the magnificent newly-unveiled piece by Don Oelze that inspired the 2010 Calgary Stampede poster. The auction begins with a light buffet dinner at 5 p.m. in the Palomino Room in BMO Centre. The bidding begins at 6:30 p.m.

Heavy Horse Pull Team Auction

Today at 7 p.m. in the Victoria Pavilion of the Agriculture Building, bidders have a chance to become a Stampede event supporter. Winners of the auction will have their name displayed on the chosen team as they compete for the title of Grand Champion in The Big Top.

All Canada Sheep Classic

Three hundred head of sheep from across Canada will begin competing for top honours in their breed and for supreme titles. The Market Lamb classes are from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Victoria Pavilion of the Agriculture Building.

Music

Friends, family and music-lovers will come out and cheer on Calgary’s newest up-and-coming country talent as they compete for the title of the Calgary Stampede’s first “Nashville North Star”. Performances start at 6:30 p.m.

Hungry?

Try the Calgary Stampede’s new cricket or alligator pizza, located in the “pizza on a stick” booth on the Midway. Served daily at 7 p.m.

New “Must-Sees”

The Winners of NBC’s Superstars of Dance Competition, “The Groovaloos”, are performing daily at 1:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. in the Bell Getaway.

New for 2009 is the Freestyle Extreme Motocross show that performs daily in the Midway Circus (located east of the Big Four Building). Crazy jumps and stunts have been thrilling packed audiences. Showtimes today are 1 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 8:30 p.m. An additional show at 10:30 p.m. has been added for Friday and Saturday night only.

On Stage for Thursday, July 9, 2009

Nashville North: Jason Blaine 9 p.m.

Coca-Cola Stage: Terri Clark 9 p.m.

Saddledome Plaza Stage: The USA Break Dancers 5:15 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Today’s Rodeo Results

http://cs.calgarystampede.com/events/rodeo/results/

Tonight’s GMC Rangeland Derby Race Results (available after midnight)

http://cs.calgarystampede.com/events/chuckwagon-races/results.html

By Brenna Trann

I made my way into the Ag-tivity in the City tent. Besides getting to see the cutest piglets and chicks, I actually learned  about Alberta farming. Yes the tent is set up for kids interactive learning, but I found it pretty interesting. Where else could you try your hand at “milking” an artificial cow.

Image from Calgary Stampede on Flickr

Last night at the grocery store I had the Alberta Pork producers slogan running thru my head: Alberta Pork from Farm to Fork – then I had to pick up some ribs for supper. Hmm baby back ribs.

By: Heather Ilsley

Stampede can seem a little overwhelming and crowded to veterens and newbies alike. One of my favorite places to go to escape the craziness and, let’s be honest, the rain – is the Western Oasis.

Located in Halls D & E of the BMO Centre, the Western Oasis is a calming place to take a break during a long day on park.  With low lighting, fountains, lots of plants, and many places to rest your feet, the Oasis really lets you recharge and relax. (more…)

Well day 1 here at Calgary was not a pleasant one for most barrel racers.  Many of the girls didn’t even run their good horses in the competition, and those who did are more than likely not going to do so again unless ground conditions change dramatically.  2 horses went all the way down in their turn and 7 others slipped throughout the pattern.  Joleen Seitz and her horse were able to handle to unsafe conditions and were the round winners.  Congrats to that duo!!!

Stampede officials are supposed to be fixing the ground this morning…but there is possibly a conflict in how the barrel racers want the ground as opposed to how the chuckwagon racers want it.  We need it safe and they prefer it hard and fast and slick.  IT’s true that they turn a barrel in the infield at the start of the race, but they turn it starting from a stand still so the horses have no momentum built up slip around.  We turn our three barrels at a run, thus needing MUCH more traction in the dirt.  It’s all about safety for the barrel racers at this point, not about fast times.  Pretty much every horse running in the barrel race yesterday is worth well into the 6 figures, and we don’t want to risk their safety or our own.  The barrel race should be a race, not a contest to see who can stand up around the pattern.

On a lighter note, the weather was beautiful and being at the Stampede was every bit as exciting as I had hoped and expected!!!  I made sure that I got some mini donuts and that will be followed up by some pineapple whip ice cream today.  Have I mentioned yet how great the fair food is there???  I heard Taylor Swift is in concert tonight so you can imagine what a zoo it will be at Stampede throughout the day.  Yesterday’s rodeo crowd was a good one.  It’s always nice to see so much interest in our sport.  

Well, I’m off for now…I will report in later!

–Danyelle

BMO Kids’ Day

It’s a grand day for the kids today. Children under the age of 12 and accompanying adults get free admission from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. They’ll enjoy a pancake breakfast at the Grandstand Courtyard from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Buckaroos Stage

There’s entertainment all day long in the lower level of the Big Four Building. New for 2009 is the Loose Moose Theatre for kids where traditional tales get a cowboy twist. Showtimes are throughout the day.

BMO Kids’ Zone

Little cowpokes can get involved in some Stampede-style competition with the Kids’ Tractor Pull and Kids’ Team Penning at Saddledome Lane in the BMO Kids’ Zone.

2010 Poster Unveiling

Be on hand for the 2010 Calgary Stampede poster unveiling at the Window on the West Stage in Hall D of BMO Centre at 10 a.m. The poster original artwork will be auctioned off along with 85 works contributed by Canadian and American artists at the 2009 Western Art Auction, July 9.

Hungry?

Try Stampede’s Deep-Fried Jelly Beans on the Midway.

New “Must-Sees”

Disney’s High School Musical: Summer Celebration! A full cast of singers and dancers perform the favourite songs from all three hit High School Musical movies on the Coca-Cola Stage. Showtimes are at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Bobs & Lolo engage kids with dancing, singing and playing along in an exciting world filled with bikes, gardens, rocket ships and more! Daily 2 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m. Additional shows July 8, 11 and 12 at 11 a.m.

On Stage for Wednesday July 8, 2009

Nashville North: Crystal Shawanda 9 p.m..
Coca-Cola Stage: The Ending 8 p.m., Thornley 9 p.m.
Saddledome Plaza Stage: The USA Break Dancers 5:15 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Pengrowth Saddledome: Taylor Swift 8 p.m. (sold out)

Today’s Rodeo Results

http://cs.calgarystampede.com/events/rodeo/results/

Tonight’s GMC Rangeland Derby Race Results (available after midnight)

http://cs.calgarystampede.com/events/chuckwagon-races/results.html

Well I got my wish, it was a great night for wagon racing.  The track was dry and the racing was fast.  Obrey Motowylo tore up the track with a day money win, and Rae Croteau and Chad Harden both had good runs off the 4 barrel.  We had the re-draw last night and I managed to keep all my drivers except 1- Jim Nevada.  I had to quit Jim to ride for Luke Tournier, which was tough because Jim is a brother to me.  Jim’s barn is where I have always hung my hat, we have travelled together for 20 years, and we are partners in one of the horses that he is using this week.  But Luke Tournier has been my first call ever since Jim retired a few years ago, and Jim isn’t running with the WPCA circuit anymore.  Oh well, the boys in the barn are bugging me pretty hard, calling me a traiter and stuff, but it is all in good fun.  We just passed the midway point, but the next 3 days are crucial to get in to the top 8 for Saturday night.  One way or another, it will be exciting.  Thank You

Well we got through tonight and as it turned out, it wasn’t that bad.  It rained about 2 feet this afternoon, and we knew the track and infield was going to be a mess.  As and outrider, a muddy infield is tough because if you can’t get your footing, it could be a wreck waiting to happen.  There is a lot of things going on after the horn blows that people don’t see, like if you have to check a horse (slow him down) or run hard just to keep up with him so you can swing into the saddle.  When the infield is heavy, it is harder to keep up with the horse, or slow him down, or even jump on because of the mud.  What can happen is if you get behind the horse and you try to pull on him to slow him down, he is going to go to the left, which is where the lead team of the barrel outside of you is going to be, so there might be a collision and I don’t have to tell you who is going to win that battle (it won’t be the outrider).  That being said, the Stampede did a great job with that infield because it was a lot better than it used to be a few years ago.  I remember one year when it was and 3 feet deep in that infield, it was up to your knees.  As for the races, two of my outfits got hit with penalties last night, Luke Tournier got nailed with a 5 second interference call, and Chad Harden got 3 seconds in outriding penalties.  Doug Irvine and Rae Croteau ran fast and clean so they are right where they want to be.  I hope it doesn’t rain tomorrow, it’s so much nicer when it is dry.  Goodnight.

By Brenna Trann, Mother of a 4-month old.

If you’re feeling brave or you just cannot give up your Stampede experience and want to bring along the lil’ buckeroo, you need to be aware of some things.

Strollers can be really good and really bad. In these crowds a stroller means you need to be very patient and know where you’re going. They are great in the Ag-tivity in the City booth where there is lots of room for you to walk and park. But get ready to leave your child’s ride at the door at Superdogs.

Bathrooms. Well they might have change table in them, but it can be tight fit in there.  Look for a quiet bathroom in the Western Oasis (my favorite place).  I found the Western Oasis in the BMO Centre to be the best place if you need to feed your babes.  Quiet, low lighting and lots of benches with plenty of room for your kids and stroller. Plus there are food kiosks for the older kids.

Just outside the Boyce Theatre near the entrance for the Stampede Market is a secret gem, a dark carpeted quiet room, the perfect place for the little buckaroo to crash for a little bit. Jaycee Park outside the Agriculture building is a nice peice of lawn to sit on, not much shade, but a place to sit for lunch at least. Speaking of lunch: for a wide variety of foods try out The Range in the basement of the Big 4 building.

By: Jen Jensen

Okay, I know you are already thinking, Grandstand show… it’s the same year after year. However I am confident you will be genuinely surprised and impressed in the obvious attempt the Stampede has taken to bring in a new show in 2009. Not only do they have professional singers, dancers, trapeze artists, motor cross drivers but the music is not the same three songs over and over in six different languages. The comedian… funny and a stage that keeps your eyes so busy your wondering if the choreographer was brought in from Cirque De Soleil. Performers flying over the Grandstand, the moon as a back drop and a fireworks show that is nothing short of spectacular bring it all to a close! Still don’t believe me… see the pics to tease your entertainment taste buds and then head on down to the park to experience it for yourself. (more…)

It was fun to be back at the Calgary Stampede. I really enjoyed seeing all the Committee members. Great to see all the people who work at the Stampede. Thanks to Jessica Bearns who helped get TJ ready and help me down the alley each day before our run. TJ can get really fired up and having a buddy horse their beside her keeps her a lot calmer.  I think this is only the 2nd time I have ever seen it rain that hard on Monday. We were soooo wet. My black hat was so wet that it died my blonde hair black. I did get the die washed out. 

The best part about Calgary Stampede, when I was running, is how much the crowd gets into the Barrel Racing. One can hear the cheers, like a wild roar. It is so thrilling to be a part of this excietment. I hope we as barrel racers can encourage all the young girls who like this sport, to get involved and have it their goal to participate in Calgary some day. 

I remember when I was about 10 years old that it was my dream to be the Calgary Stampede Queen. Then in 1973 I was honored to wear that crown. What a wonderful year. Then as the years went on and I got more involved in Barrel Racing I try to qualify as often as possible. 

See all of you on Saturday, July 11, when I will be trying to qualify for the Sunday Show Down. 

Western Heritage Day

Seniors are invited to come down and enjoy the Calgary Stampede with free admission all day plus free refreshments and entertainment in the Stampede Corral. Seniors also receive free WestJet Skyrides all day and a free bingo play at the top of each hour.

Showbands Live!

Don’t miss Showbands Live! Where nearly 1,000 competitors from as far away as Australia and Taiwan compete for top honours and prize money. Competition starts at 1 p.m. The Showcase Performance is at 6 p.m. and the awards ceremony is held at 8 p.m. in the Pengrowth Saddledome.

Rodeo

Rodeo action continues at 1:30 p.m. today. New for 2009 Western Heritage Day, seniors can get Free Copper Section Rodeo and Evening Show tickets (limited seating). Tickets are available at the Grandstand Ticket Office starting at 10 a.m.

Ag-tivities

The Canadian National Miniature Horse show wraps up today with shows from 8 a.m. to noon at The Big Top and from 3 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. at Northern Lights. The Canadian Supreme Halter Champion will be awarded at the end of the show.

New “Must-Sees”

The Heebee-jeebees are new on the Coca-Cola Stage for 2009. Showtimes today at 12:45 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Indian Village

The Indian Village has been part of the Calgary Stampede since 1912. Watch traditional handgames, cheer at a tipi raising contest, admire native handicrafts or learn about traditional meat cutting skills. Open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Hungry?

New at the Harvest Room Café located in the Plus 15 level, BMO Centre try the Wonton King’s signature Wonton Soup.

On Stage for Tuesday July 7, 2009
Nashville North: George Fox, 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Kentucky Headhunters 9 p.m.
Coca-Cola Stage: Inward Eye 8 p.m. The Trews 9 p.m.
Saddledome Plaza Stage: Treaty 7 Native Dancers 2:30 p.m.  A Band of Outriders 7 p.m.

Today’s Rodeo Results

http://cs.calgarystampede.com/events/rodeo/results/

Tonight’s GMC Rangeland Derby Race Results (available after midnight)

http://cs.calgarystampede.com/events/chuckwagon-races/results.html

By Brenna Trann

Of course Superdogs are super, but you’re going to miss out if you don’t go early.  The shows are at 10am, 1 pm, 4pm and 7:30 in the Stampede Corral. These shows fill up fast.  Plan to leave your stroller outside in the corridor.  IF you don’t make it to the 7:30 show head down the hall to the Boyce Theatre for Stampede Talent Search.  The Corral is right beside the Kids Midway and provides some great air conditioned down time.

Here is a peek at the Superdog show seen through the eyes of our Roving Reporter:

By: Jen Jensen

I remember as a little girl my dad saying “everyone loves a parade” and this year in Calgary it was no different. The people I met were from all over; some traveled a great distance (and the yearly die-hards were there at 6:30am or earlier) and some were there for the first time, all waiting in anticipation. For me, I find the attraction to be a few of the ol’ favorites that make it here year after year such as the army tanks and the Stampede Show Band and there are always some new highlights. It impressed me this year that the crowd gave a standing ovation as the law enforcement and army passed by. It made me realize this is one of the few opportunities we get to show our appreciation publicly. The diversity always surprises me, I made sure to catch a shot of the guy riding the Brahma bull:

Cowgirl belly dancers (I mean where else can you see that in one place): (more…)