Calgary Stampede 2010 was the most exciting time I have experienced. Nothing could have prepared me for the ten days of celebration.

I met hundreds of people at the many events I attended. The entire city of Calgary was alive with western heritage and values – The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth had finally arrived! Many visitors came to watch and participate in the parade that was the kick off to the Stampede. This year as the Indian Princess, I rode the Indian Princess horse Stormy in the parade. That was an unforgettable experience, to have a chance to wave and greet all the people of the city and world as they watched the parade.

There were many pancake breakfasts that I attended with the trio. It was wonderful to meet so many people at the many breakfasts hosted by the local corporations and businesses.

The rodeo was the one of the many great attractions for many professional cowboys and cowgirls. I was thrilled for the opportunity to ride in the rodeo grand entry. It was very exciting to see all the friendly people smiling and waving back at me.

Each evening the chuckwagon races created high energy as the crowds cheered on their favourite chuckwagon driver and outriders. I had the honour, along with the trio, to escort daily rodeo and chuckwagon winners onto the main stage for their trophies and prize money.

The most exciting event was the celebration of dances, ceremonies and tea gathering at the Indian Village. I was so proud to represent the First Nations people as I was at these Indian Village events.

I am deeply grateful to the many sponsors, chaperones, Indian Events Committee and Indian Princess Committee members that made my experience at the Stampede a memorable one.

Until next time,

Your 2010 Calgary Stampede Indian Princess
Sahvanne Weasel Traveller

Here’s what some of the NGC hosts had to say about introducing the Western Culture to new audiences at the 2010 Calgary Stampede.

The Western Oasis in the BMO Centre was really great this year.  I really enjoyed being able to walk around and enjoy the western art with all of our guests as well as look at the unique entertainment that was showcased.  One of my favourite parts was the living statues.  A lot of people really liked looking at them from afar and then slowly getting closer and closer to them, to see when they would move and what they were going to do next. I also really enjoyed looking at the Royal Trio Alumni exhibit.  It was so interesting to see how much history the Stampede has and also how the outfits have changed over the years (for example the bright yellow pant suit from the 1970’s).  Another highlight was watching the artist build the Inuksuk’s.  Western Oasis was great as it was a chance to really interact and get to know our guests in a quiet, calm and very interesting setting. 
-Andrea Miller

I really enjoyed the whole weekend so it will be hard to pick out a favorite part.  But after initially being scared to tears by the living statues in Western Oasis, the 4 year old from the Chinese community association asked “Mom, why did it move?” then wanted to go back and see it again, that was definitely up there for favorites!  Or the little boy from Vietnam who, after eating Bannock at Indian Village exclaimed “I’ve ALWAYS wanted to try Indian food!” and the lady from Eritrea who was so impressed with the vibrancy of the Native culture.  The teenage girl from Afghanistan who told me her favorite part of the tour was looking the artwork in Western Oasis.  And the father from Somalia who stopped to do his Muslim prayers next to one of the nature displays in the Western Oasis.  Those moments really stuck out for me.
- Nicole Mosher

Well, the final 4 are decided.  After 8 hard days of racing and 1 rainout, Neal Walgenbach; the Sutherland brothers, Kirk and Kelly; and Jason Glass, are in the final dash tonight.  I think it is going to come down to a barrel draw because all 4 outfits are pretty evenly matched.  Personally, I have 2 wagons in the final 4: Neal Walgenbach and Kirk Sutherland.  I will ride for Neal Walgenbach tonight, and it will be sad as it is for the last time.  However, win, lose or draw, I am proud to say that I have been with him all these years, and it is an honor to be with him in his final race.  It has been fun all week hanging out with our American steer wrestling friends Stockton Graves, Dean Gorsuch, Wade Sumpter, Gabe LeDoux, and Todd Suhn.  They all like to come over to the barns at night and have a beer with us.  They are selling Neal Walgenbach’s horses this morning at 11 - it will be a sad day I am sure.  These horses are like family, and when they leave, I imagine it will be like a kid going off to college. Like something is missing.  Congratulations to Dustin Gorst on being named the Top Outrider at this year’s Stampede.  For him to fight back from 2 broken legs last year shows his true heart and character.  That was well deserved.  Anyway, tonight is a big night, stay tuned!

Had enough rides, drinks and mini-donuts? Check out the Western Oasis, located in Halls D & E of
the BMO Centre. The Western Oasis features the western art and lifestyle elements of the Calgary
Stampede we know and love in an oasis-style atmosphere where you can unwind and relax. While
you’re inside check out phenomenal western photographs, bronzes, paintings, cooking
demonstrations, arts & crafts and western entertainment. Or, put your feet up and relax in one of
the natural oasis environments.

So.. I have a slight confession to make, I already know real cowboys (I grew up with them). This is for all the people who don’t know them. The Professional Bullriders (PBR) Merchandise Trailer is returning to the greatest outdoor show on earth.  Located by the main entrance of the Grandstand, the PBR Merchandise Trailer is where you can meet real cowboys and PBR superstars and get all your PBR gear.

Daily autograph sessions will be held immediately following the afternoon rodeo.  Don’t miss your chance to get up close and personal with 2009 PBR Canadian National Champion and Built Ford Tough Series (BFTS) contender Beau Hill ; 2009 PBR Mexico Champion Jason O’Hearn; and 2008 PBR Canadian National Champion Aaron Roy .You can also meet PBR World Finals qualifiers Zane Lambert , Dusty Ephrom, Matt Bohon and Edimundo Gomes ; and 2009 PBR Team Canada member Ty Elliott.

PBR Merchandise Trailer Autograph Schedule
After the Rodeo | Grandstand Entrance | Stampede Park
Fri July 9 – Beau Hill and Zane Lambert
Sat July 10 – Matt Bohon and Beau Hill
Sun July 11 – Zane Lambert and Matt Bohon
Mon July 12 – Matt Bohon and Zane Lambert
Tues July 13 – Aaron Roy and Edimundo Gomes
Wed July 14 – Edimundo Gomes and Dusty Ephrom
Thurs July 15 – Ty Elliott and Jason O’Hearn
Fri July 16 – Jason O’Hearn and Aaron Roy
Sat July 17 – Dusty Ephrom and Ty Elliott
Sun July 18 – Zane Lambert and Jason O’Hearn
Note: Schedule subject to change

Also, because one can never get too much rodeo or bucking bulls, the PBR Canadian Cup National Finals presented by Wrangler will be held on November 19-20 at the Credit Union Centre in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.  Tickets begin as low as $15 and are on sale now at the Credit Union Centre Box Office, Saskatchewan Ticketmaster outlets, online at ticketmaster.ca or by telephone at (800) 970-7328. There is bucking chutes positioned at both ends of the arena, giving fans the ultimate PBR experience.  This is not a rodeo; it’s the Toughest Sport on Earth! Its a great event to go to.

So you now you can go and keep your promise of meeting a real cowboy this Stampede.

Matt Lait and I at the rodeo office this morning.

My “Promise” for this year’s Stampede was to meet a real cowboy. I had the incredible opportunity to meet Matt Lait, a bareback rider and genuine, bonafide cowboy!! Matt is a five-time Canadian Finals Rodeo qualifier. In 2004, Matt was the reserve Calgary Stampede Champion, winning $25,000 for his efforts, at the age of 21!

Before we get started on his interview, here is a brief lowdown on what Matt’s passion is- Bareback.  It is one of the most physically demanding rodeo events. Using one arm, the cowboy holds onto the rawhide handhold of a riggin (a leather pad cinched around the horse’s girth). The handhold is snug-fitting and is customized to the individual’s grip. The stress on the rider’s arm is intense as the riding arm absorbs most of the horse’s power.
A bareback rider will be disqualified for touching the animal or equipment with his free hand, or bucking off before the end of the eight-second ride.
The bareback rider tries to reach as far forward as he can with his feet, then rolls his spurs back up toward the riggin. At the same time, he must keep from being pulled away from the handhold. The higher and wilder the rider spurs, the higher the marks. Sounds pretty crazy, right? Let’s read on and see what I learned from my chat with Matt this morning.

1. When did you start rodeo?

I was about 12 or 14 when I first got into it.  It was a slow entrance into rodeo…some kids are born into it but it was my best friend that got me into it.

2. What was your first big moment in rodeo?

I would have to say winning the $25, 000 right here at the Calgary Stampede in 2004 was my finest moment (so far!). That is a lot of money to win at the age of 21.

3. What did you do with your earnings?

Paid my truck off and went to school at SAIT for Petroleum Engineering Tech.

4. Where is the farthest rodeo you have travelled to?

Arcadia Florida is the farthest. That’s a lot of miles to put on!

5. Have you had any injuries that have hindered your progress in rodeo?

Unfortunately, yes. My biggest injury was a broken leg in 2004 that put me out for a year and half. Six weeks ago I broke my wrist so that has been really challenging. It’s difficult, lots of adjusting. When you’re healthy you let it hang out but when you’re hurt you have to change your technique to be in the least amount of pain.

6. Are you friends with your competitors?

Yes, it’s a pretty tight circle. Rodeo is like one large family. I am really lucky that my Mom and Dad are my biggest fans, along with my wife Allie. They try to travel with me as much as possible.

7. Do you have your sights set on winning big this year?

I had some big goals but being out for 6 weeks is going to maybe hinder them. But you can’t let them get out of sight… I’m still trying to accomplish them. I want to be Canadian Champion and make it to NFR (National Finals Rodeo) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

8. How do you get to NFR?

You have to ride a lot. Money won is points. It usually is about $68, 000 to qualify.

9. What is the hardest part of rodeo?

Being away from home, and staying healthy. Travelling definitely takes its toll.

10. I have been asking everyone I interview about his or her “Promise” for this year’s Stampede. I was surprised to learn you were actually IN one of the television commercials!

Yeah, I was in the Goth ad (to Promise Plaid is the new Black). For me, I promised my wife I’d win some money.

Matt, thank you so much for meeting me at the Rodeo Office today. I know how busy you are during Stampede- you are an amazing Cowboy and wish you all the best for the rest of this year’s rodeo as well as hope you make it to the NFR. I’ll be watching for you in the ‘big show’ on Sunday!

There are still lots of great seats available for the rodeo over the last few days of Stampede so come on down and cheer on Matt as he sets his sights on winning some big prize money. For updates and info on everything Stampede, make sure you follow us on Twitter at @calgarystampede , on Facebook through our official Facebook fan page, and stay tuned to the official Stampede Blog to learn more about some of the things happening Here. All Year.

I saw the Grandstand Show the other night and it was fantastic! The theme this year is World Party and it celebrates the astounding beauty and wonder of life on Earth. The show features Eva Avila, winner of Canadian Idol, and Ta’Rea Campbell, who played Nala in the Lion King. The Cirque du Soleil acrobatics were amazing and the motocross stunts kept me on the edge of my seat.

There is also a special tribute to Michael Jackson featuring Daniel ‘Da FunkyMystic’ Celebre, who was one of the principal dancers from Michael Jackson’s concert that was never held, This Is It. The night finishes off with incredible fireworks. If you have a chance, definitely check it out!

One of the great things about the format of the Calgary Stampede rodeo is that it allows cowboys and cowgirls to stay in one place for 4 days, giving them the opportunity to get out and meet some of our local media. Each day of Stampede a different cowboy or cowgirl stops by Breakfast Television. Here are some of the pictures from the appearances:  

JJ Elshere, Saddle Bronc Rider and Jill Belland, Host of BT

 - Photo courtesy of Glenn Stevenson 

J.W Harris, Bull Rider waits with a cup of coffee

 - Photo courtesy of Glenn Stevenson

Wayne Brooks, Rodeo Announcer at the interview desk 

 - Photo courtesy of Glenn Stevenson

I caught up with Monster, one of the featured Superdogs, the other day. Here’s what he had to say.

1. What breed of dog are you?
I am a papillon, which is one of the oldest breeds of toy spaniels.

2. Who is your trainer?
My mum and trainer is Shannen Jorgensen.

3. How long have you been a super dog?
I have been a Superdog for 3 years now.

4. What is your favorite part of the show?
Hearing people cheer for me and the rest of the dogs. It is very encouraging; I love to run and jump.

5. How do you prepare for a show?
My mum keeps me in top shape all the time so I am always ready when it is show time!

6. Which of the other Superdogs is your greatest competition?
Earmuffs. He tries to get mum’s attention too. When one of us gets to come out and run, I don’t like it when mum picks Earmuffs instead of me for an event. Mum likes us to take turns so we don’t get too tired out.

7. What do you like most about coming to the Calgary Stampede?
It is a wonderful environment full of excitement and fun. The audience appreciation and enthusiasm makes for a great Stampede. Calgary is my home, so I love being able to show off on my home turf.

8. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I compete in agility trials now and I am training to hopefully compete at my first agility national championships later this year.

9. What is your favourite treat?
A ball or a frisbee. Playing both with mum means I get a big treat reward.

10. Who is your best friend?
My mum. I live with other papillons and they are good friends too.
Be sure to check out Monster and the other super dogs as they present Holly-woof High! at the Calgary Stampede. The show runs daily in the Big Four Building and admission is free, though do come early to get your free ticket!

Been through the market once or twice?  Seen something you really want, but just haven’t got the cash to get it?

Well then, make sure to enter the Stampede Market shopping spree contest!  A draw will be held on Thursday to win a $1500 shopping spree for all the vendors in the Stampede Market.  So, you could pick up those boots you liked, or that massage pad that felt so great on your back, or load up on mini donuts for ALL your friends.

Shopping takes place on Friday afternoon, so when you enter make sure you’re available (since if you’re not, you can’t claim the prize).  Visit the 101.5 Energy FM booth in the Stampede Market, and enter your name to win.  We’ll be drawing on Thursday and contacting the winner, and inviting them back down on Friday.  You’ll get two personal shoppers to go with you, and the chance to share with Calgary all your purchases on the radio.  It’s timed though, so make sure you preshop so you don’t run out of time to spend all your money!

By Killa Burkinshaw

“There’s the Horn: Annnnnnnnddddd They’rrrrrrrre Offfffffffff………….” That’s what we all hear when Les McIntyre starts the Chuckwagon races at the GMC Rangeland Derby. Then there is the mad dash of the outriders putting the stove and tent poles into the back of the chuck, and the thunder of the horses running by. I can tell you it’s one of my favourite parts of the Stampede. But the chuckwagon wasn’t always used for that. Today, we’ll look back to its humble roots.

A Quick History Lesson.

The chuckwagon was designed by Charles Goodnight in 1866. He purchased a government wagon and completely rebuilt it according to his specifications in seasoned bois d’arc, the toughest wood available. The most identifying feature of the wagon was the sloping box on the rear with hinged lid that lowered to become a cook’s work table. The box was fitted to the width of the wagon and contained shelves and drawers for holding food and utensils. To the cowboys, “chuck” was food, so the box was called a chuck box and the wagon became known as a chuck wagon. Goodnight’s early prototype of the chuck wagon was copied widely and changed little in the years to follow. During the long trail drives, the chuck wagon was the headquarters of every cattle outfit on the range. Cowboys didn’t just eat their meals there; it was their social center and recreational spot. It was a natural gathering place filled with tall tales, listening to music, or just recounting the day’s events. The chuck wagon was also the cowboy’s only known address, truly their home on the range. If the chuck wagon was their home, the chuck wagon cook was king. The morale of the men and the smooth functioning of the camp depended largely upon him - the cook’s authority was unquestioned. Wagon cooks, as a group, had the reputation of being ill-tempered, and no wonder - their working conditions usually left a lot to be desired. The nature of the cook’s job required that he get up several hours earlier than the cowhands, and work longer hours with less sleep. When the outfit was on the move, he had to be at the next appointed camp and have a hot meal ready on time - often working short of both fuel and water. He was constantly called upon to battle the elements – wind, rain, sand, mud, insects, and even rattlesnakes. In addition to preparing meals, the cook also was expected to act as barber, doctor, banker, and sometimes if needed, a referee if a disturbance among the cowhands arose.

The chuck wagon was also used as a hospital unit used by the Union army surgeons during the later stages of the American civil war.

How it got started at the Calgary Stampede.

For the very first Rangeland Derby Stampede in 1923, founder Guy Weadick convinced a number of working ranches to enter their authentic chuckwagons and roundup crews. The No. 10 Event evening competition was the “Cowboy’s Chuck-Wagon Race” with Purses and Prizes totaling $275.00. Bill Sommers, a stagecoach driver from the Yukon, won the first wagon race that year.

For the Official Canadian Championship title, each outfit, consisting of 4 horses, a wagon, a driver and 4 helpers, were required to “cut a figure eight around barrels, out through backstretch into track, run around track back to camp bround, unhook team from wagon, stretch fly. No less than two stakes, and make a fire. First puff of smoke signals the winner. The Prize of the day goes as follows: Day Money: 1st $25 | 2nd $15 | 3rd $10 | Free Entrance – Man entering team that wins the greatest number of races out of 5 will be awarded a special prize of a $25.00 and a John B. Stetson hat”.  Today is a completely different story!! Now the cowboys compete for $945,000 dollars and $150,000 sudden death championship and a GMC truck.

Today the rules are a little bit simpler – no starting fires and first smoke, but you have to make sure everything is timed absolutely perfectly. The rules are: hitch a team of four high-strung thoroughbreds to a chuckwagon, stop them at a barrel, settle them as four outriders (each with their own horse) set the tent poles and stove, and wait for the starting horn. When the horn goes off, throw the stove, tent poles in the back of the chuckwagon and then do a figure 8 around the barrel and then run like crazy to the finish line. There is a thin line for error and those who cross it will not earn a spot in the $150,000 final heat on Day 10. It’s those little intangibles that make it so difficult to run 10 days penalty free. When so much has to go right—to run fast, to stay in the top four—you just hope to avoid penalties. Teams can be penalized for: stove off ground- 1 second, late Outrider 1 second, wagon failing to follow proper figure 8 pattern- 5 seconds and the list goes on.

The 36 drivers that qualified for the 2010 Calgary Stampede are based on the formula established by the Calgary Stampede, the breakdown as follows:

• 8 wagon drivers from the 2009 GMC Rangeland Derby Aggregate Standings after eight performances;
• 8 wagon drivers from the CPCA Final Standings in 2009;
• 16 wagon drivers from the WPCA Final Standings in 2009; and,
• 4 wagon drivers selected at the Stampede’s discretion

There you have it. A brief history of the chuckwagons and the evolution to modern day racing.  I hope you all will come down and watch at least one race. I’ll be down on the tarmac, cheering on all the drivers, hope to see you there!

Every day during the rodeo fans line up to get autographs from one of the cowgirls or cowboys competing in the day’s rodeo. During Saturday’s performance of the rodeo a fan approached one of our rodeo committee members frantically asking where Beau Hill was.  The unnamed fan had come from England to see the Stampede, more specifically, Beau Hill. She had watched him compete on TV in the PBR (Professional Bull Riders Association) and instantly she was a follower of his. She liked watching him so much so that when the first male was born in her family in three generations she named him Beau. She had come to Calgary for the second year in a row hoping to have the chance to meet the child’s namesake.  Upon hearing the story, Bill Piers from the Rodeo Committee tracked down the two-time NFR qualifier and three-time PBR finals qualifier to have him come over and meet his adoring fan.

“It was kinda funny,” mentioned Beau as he taped his hand in his pre-ride preparation. “I didn’t know what to think”.  For Beau, the name is something he shares with all the males in his family.  “All the boys in my family have the initials J.B.H.  – my full name is Jason Beau Hill.” When he and his wife Keri had their two sons, after having daughter Lakai, they continued the tradition naming them Jory Beau and Jace Beau.

Beau was able to sign autographs and take pictures with the dedicated fan from England making her second trip to the Calgary Stampede a successful one and proving that when you are a rodeo hero, fans will adore you, and may even name their children after you.

-          Submitted by Katie Lutz, Calgary Stampede Rodeo Committee

The 2010 Calgary Stampede World Champion Six Horse Hitch has brought competitors from afar.  Canada is known for its excellent draft horse stock; however, this year we have pulled from a much wider geography.  

Within Canada we have draft horses from as far as Listowel, Ontario, and Cranbrook, British Columbia; and as close as Turner Valley, Alberta.  The Heavy Horse show typically brings a few American competitors, however the 2010 show has brought in exhibitors from such places as Postdam New York, Rio Vista California and Bondurant Wyoming, which happens to be the home of the Jackson Fork Ranch who is the $10,000 winner of the World Champion Six Horse Hitch.  

There are 265 draft horses in the barn and there were 15 hitches in the ring yesterday, which is 90 horses!  We are thrilled to have had such a great turn out of draft horses this year.  Sadly today is the end of the Heavy Horse show (the Junior classes are on as we speak), however, the show this year was a success and we cannot wait until 2011!

Hello Calgary! My name is Kyle German and I am from Crossfield. I am competing in my first Stampede in the Bull Riding event and loving every minute of it! I have placed in the first two rounds with one go left. Hoping to make Showdown Sunday for the $100,000 round. Hope to see you all there!

1. What do you do when not Rodeoing?

I spend time with my family, and train futurity horses.

2. What goes through your mind before you enter the arena?

I picture a perfect run. What it’s going to look like going around each barrel and racing across the finish line.

3. What all goes into the 20 seconds you are in the arena?

I start my day at 7 am feeding, watering and exercising my horse. I wrap her legs, do whatever is needed to make sure she is happy. At 2 pm I get her saddle on and start to warm her up. After we race I take about 30 minutes to walk her out, then I give her a bath and let her rest for the night.

4. How many times have you been to the Calgary Stampede?

Numerous – I competed in my first stampede when I was 14.

5. What’s your favourite thing to do in Calgary?

Eat at the Keg Steak House

6. What does it mean to you to be able to compete in Calgary?

Calgary is such a prestigious rodeo. When I’m here, I get treated so well by the people and I love the fans.  It’s an honour to be here.

7. What’s your favourite snack on the road?

Cheese & Crackers, Corn Nuts

8. What kind of vehicle do you drive and why?

Ford F450 – I’ve always driven a Ford and am sponsored by Gray Daniels Ford in Mississippi.

9. Do you have any pre competition rituals?

Not really, just to stay focused.

10. How long does it take you to get ready to ride?

45 Minutes

11. What’s the shortest amount of time you have had to get ready to ride in?

5 Minutes

12. When you’re in Calgary what do you do after the rodeo?

Watch the Fireworks

13. What will you do during the four days between when you come back for the finals?

I have 4 rodeos in the states that I’ll go to then come back to Canada.

14. How many rodeos will you go to this year?

50 or 60

15. How much will you spend on fuel?

Lots, just to get to Calgary from my home in Oklahoma I spent over $1,000 in fuel.

16. Do you travel with anyone?

My friend, Hannah

17. What shift do you like to drive and why?

Whatever it takes to get to the next rodeo on time.  Hannah and I switch off – at times between the two of us we have driven 24 hours straight.

18. What difference do you notice between rodeos in Canada and in the US?

People in Canada are really friendly and you can tell that they really love rodeo up here.

 19. What sets rodeo apart from other sports?

The relationship between horse and rider; we travel with our horse, care for it – it’s a strong partnership.

20. What’s one question you wish interviewers would ask you?

I don’t think people realize how much happens outside of the arena. There are the nights when you almost run out of fuel or you’re changing a flat tire on the side on the road that make rodeoing really difficult. It’s hard but I want people to know that girls can do it.

-          Submitted by Katie Lutz, Calgary Stampede Rodeo Committee

Six Horse Hitch 2009

How did people move freight, grain and produce before we had the big trucks and trailers? The mighty heavy horses were the only way you could move supplies around the country and you can see them in action at the Heavy Horse World Champion Six Horse Hitch at the Pengrowth Saddledome at noon Sunday, July 11. The Belgians, Clydsedales, Percherons and Shires are the breeds represented in one of my favourite Stampede events. From noon until 3 pm these bright, shiny wagons and harnesses strut to the sounds of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.

Another showcase for horsepower takes place in the Big Top on Sunday. The Vintage Tractor Show and Shine runs from 4 to 6 pm and gives the audience a taste of tractors from our past- anything made before 1960. I have likely driven many of the red tractors (International Harvester or McCormick Deering) involved. I still own three vintage tractors and I hope one day to compete in the event myself. I’ll see you at the shows – look after for me after 3!

Well yesterday didn’t go so well – Horse worked good. Steer just didn’t really start.
Taydon and I went to the show last night and have taken in the fireworks every night. We are having a great time.
I just got up and got the horses out of their stalls, walked them around for awhile and now I’m waiting for Taydon and Del to get up.
Del loves the Chuck- if you haven’t seen them, it’s a must when you come up here!
Have a blessed Sunday!
“This is the day that the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad in it” Psalms 118:24

Four pancake breakfasts plus two barbeques and one dinner equals three very well fed ladies!! Day two is over and we are still loving every minute of it. Grand entry was fast, fun and full of excitement as the horses were riled up and ready to go. We watched 2009 Princess Kateri prove why she is more than just a pretty face during the “Cowboy Up Challenge.” Kirstie spoke on the Grandstand stage tonight and did a spectacular job. We are looking forward to another full day tomorrow.

Come out and see us during grand entry and cheer the contestants on at the rodeo tomorrow – I promise that we have requested nice weather!

Where can you find fancy cowboy boots along side the latest gadgets and gizmos?  The Stampede Market, of course!  All your traditional favourites, such as the slicer and the massage pads are back, as well as many new products to check out.  And don’t forget all the yummy treats inside as well.  There are different kinds of ice cream (dippin’ dots, shakes and nitro ice cream), candied nuts, fudge, mini cakes and mini donuts; and of course coffee and lemonade.

Here’s of some of the great new stuff you’ll find in the Stampede Market – but you should really come and check it out for yourself.  You can get your boots shined, vibrate off that last corndog you tried, or get your photo taken in old fashioned costumes or in front of a Saskatchewan green screen.  There’s giftware from all over the world, including Burma, Tanzania and Kenya, Ecuador, and all over the UK.  There is beautiful wood furniture made of mesquite and teak, and the artists are here and would love to explain their work.  Get in shape with sketchers shape-ups, and yoga wear as well.  There is every kind of jewellery you can think of, from amber to silver, stones and bling. 

We have aromatherapy and pet accessories, along with plenty of clothing and hats.  Of course, there are all the home gadgets you can imagine, from the robotic vacuum to the latest steam cleaner to the garlic grater.  There are hot tubs and lawn swings, massage chairs and beds, and plenty of pillows and silk bedding to put on them.  You can pick up a perfume, detox your feet or smooth out your legs.  There are plenty of beauty products, for your face, your skin and your hair – you can even bling it out.  There are kitchen appliances, like knives and cookware, as well as ladders, hoses and nozzles for the backyard.

As you can see, there is something for everyone.  To see a complete listing, click this link: http://cs.calgarystampede.com/upload/media_element/131/01/bmo_centre_map.pdf

Don’t forget to visit the 101.5 Energy FM booth and enter to win a $1500 Market Shopping spree.  So, bring your credit card, and happy shopping!