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May, 2024
TABLE of CONTENTS
General Manager and President’s Message SMS Equipment and CPRA Extend Partnership
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Changing Gears – Clay Elliott Canadian Finals Rodeo Payout
Rodeo Committee Spotlight – Ponoka Stampede Sport Medicine Corner – Chiropractic Care Athlete Feature – Kavis Drake/Denim Ross
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Who Knew with Rene Leclercq
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Rodeo Tales – Tyler Craig
Miss Rodeo Canada Canadian Standings
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CPRA Stock Talk
2024 CPRA Schedule CPRA Business Section
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Contribuing writers: Dianne Finstad, Tim Ellis, Dave Poulsen, Darby-rae Crouch, Clay Creasy, Denny Phipps, Terry Cooke, Barb Poulsen Regular contributing photographers: Covy Moore, Chantelle Bowman, Sean Libin, Shellie Scott, Gralyn Boyd, Billie-Jean Duff, Ken Marcinkoski, Liz Twan, Zach Cormier, Carlie Borris, Dallas Duffy, Mike Copeman Cover: Clay Elliott, 86.75 points on C5 Rodeo’s X92 Northern Lights for a Round Win – 2018 CFR photo by Billie Jean Duff Clay Elliott, 2023 Maple Leaf Circuit Finals – Chantelle Bowman photo
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Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 3
Catching up with CPRA General Manager Denny Phipps
N ow that we are in May, the days are getting longer, the temperatures warmer, the debate between straw or felt hats is ongoing and we’re enjoying outdoor rodeos again! The start of the season has had fantastic action and great crowds, entries have been strong, and the competition heated, contestants and animals have all come to town ready to com- pete. It is fun to see the strong showing and if this is any indicator of the season ahead, it will tougher than ever to make the cut for CFR 50! We have a number of multi time winners already in the young season and the best is yet to come. I was very pleased to be able to announce a multi year extension with SMS Equipment as the title Sponsor of our Pro Tour, the SMS Equipment Pro Rodeo Tour. SMS Equipment and the CPRA share a lot of common corporate values surrounding hard work, perseverance, doing the right thing and integrity – making this a great fit for a partnership. This multi year partnership will allow the CPRA, our Tour events, and SMS Equipment to plan not just for 2024 but into the future. After a lot of number crunching by the CPRA Board and leadership team the CFR payout was announced (see page 14) and after months of not being able to give too much information out, it have been great to finally release to the membership what everyone will be competing for at Rogers Place in October when contes - tants via for their share of over $1.5 million dollars (these numbers do not include BAW payout). Go round winners will take home $11,100 a night with the average winner on five head/five runs taking home $16,650 at week’s end; opening up the opportunity for someone to earn nearly $28,000 Saturday night if they win both the round and the aver - age!
The Breakaway Roping continues to grow and will be featured in all five performances of the Canadian Finals Ro - deo with 12 contestants again qualifying. BAW prize money will come from a separate bucket of money which in part will be funded by the
CPRA. The remaining monies will be funded by the efforts of the BAW ropers and their fund raising endeavors (please watch for their fund raising auction later in the year.) CFR 50 Tickets went on sale May 10 for previ - ous All IN Pack holders on and they will go on sale to the general public in the coming weeks. We know that fans are excited to get their seats and we are looking forward to seeing you in October. The CPRA is saddened by the loss of Patrick Gottsch. I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Patrick, the founder of The Cow - boy Channel, over the past year and appreci- ated the time we spent working to expand the reach of Canadian Rodeos. Patrick’s passion for Rodeo was unwavering. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Gottsch family and everyone at Rural Media Group. Patrick Gottsch’s legacy will be felt for years to come as the sport of Rodeo has never had more ex - posure or reach and he will be dearly missed.
Denny Phipps
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 4
CPRA President’s Message W ith the 2024 rodeo season in full swing, it’s exciting for all of us, rodeo athletes, officials and fans--to be able to spend time in places that have meant a lot to us over the years. continues to be one of the very best events, not just in Canada but in all of North America. (See related story on page 11)
And as always, it’s the volunteers, sponsors and fans in all of those communities that make it possible for us to enjoy our favourite sport. Congratulations to several rodeos that are celebrating landmarks this year. We just wrapped up the 104th Falkland Stampede and in a couple of weeks Rocky Mountain House will stage it’s 50th annual event. And I’m excited to welcome our northernmost rodeo, La Crete, as our newest SMS Equipment Tour Rodeo. All of us at the CPRA are extremely pleased to have signed a three-year extension with SMS, one of our terrific major sponsors who have helped take Canadi - an professional rodeo to a new level. Congratulations and a thank you is in order as well to the Ponoka Stampede as they have upped their prize money for 2024. Ponoka heads into its 88th year and
It was a wonderful evening as we honoured the 2023 induct - ees to the Canadian Rodeo Hall of Fame—with special congratulations to Contestants
Ken Guenthner and Smokey Snyder, Builder Monica Wilson, Animal War Cry, and Legend Craig Butterfield as they take their rightful places in the Hall. And equally deserving of special recognition are the 2024 group of Hall of Fame inductees—Contestants George Spence, Travis Whiteside and Oscar Walter, Builder Scott Byrne, Animal TJ (tie-down roping horse), and Legend Doug (Larry) Petherbridge. Hope your summer is a great one—see you at CPRA rodeos and events!
Terry Cooke
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 5
SMS Equipment and CPRA Extend Agreement S MS Equipment and the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) are proud to an - nounce a three-year extension of their partner - out over $2.7 million, which is anticipated to grow as the season progresses into 2024. Throughout the Tour, contestants chase a berth at the SMS Equipment Tour Finale in Armstrong, BC with all Tour earnings also setting contestants up to qualify for the Canadian Finals and National Finals Rodeos.
ship that sees SMS Equipment as the title sponsor of the Rodeo Canada Pro Tour. With the agreement in place, the association’s signature event will continue as the SMS Equipment Pro Rodeo Tour through 2026. “We’re delighted to have SMS Equipment ‘back in the arena’ in support of Canada’s rodeo athletes,” says Denny Phipps, CPRA General Manager. “Our shared vision and values make for an outstanding partner - ship. Hard work, integrity, respect, and the drive for excellence are all qualities exuded by our rodeo communities and the Western way of life. The same is demonstrated in SMS Equipment’s work and in our collaboration to-date.” The two organizations first partnered in 2022, when SMS Equipment joined as the title sponsor of the Rodeo Canada Pro Tour. The partnership will continue after a successful second year, during which the tour expanded significantly. “Our ongoing support of CPRA extends beyond mere sponsorship,” says Darren Wood, EVP, Construction – West Region at SMS Equipment. “It symbolizes a deep-rooted connection to the communities we serve and the traditions we honour. Much like the dedication and resilience demonstrated by CPRA cowboys and cowgirls, SMS Equipment’s commitment to excellence drives us forward.” Ongoing collaboration, according to both or - ganizations, is a “natural fit.” “Together, we nurture an environment where performance, respect and collaboration thrive,” adds Wood. “We’re excited to see these values in action as we cheer on this year’s contestants from the stands in commu - nities across Western Canada.” The SMS Equipment Pro Rodeo Tour consists of the largest professional rodeos in Canada, spanning the four western provinces. In 2023 alone, these 16 tour events collectively paid
Success at the tour events can change the trajectory of a contestant’s year. “These tour rodeos are a key component in setting yourself up for a successful season,” says Clint Laye, reigning Canadian champion and back-to-back winner of the SMS Equipment Pro Rodeo Tour. “There is a lot of money up for grabs, and being successful at the tour events allows a guy to position himself where he needs to be to reach the goals for the year.” Follow the 2024 SMS Equipment Pro Rodeo Tour live on the Cowboy Channel+ app.
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 6
2024 SMS EQUIPMENT PRO TOUR DATES
Tentative: Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement - Caslon, AB
May 24-26
Grande Prairie, AB
May 30-June 2
Lea Park (Marwayne), AB
June 7-9 June 21-23 June 21-23
Wainwright, AB
Sundre, AB Ponoka, AB
June 25-July 1 June 28-July 1
Williams Lake, BC Teepee Creek, AB
July 12-14 July 19-21 July 25-27 August 1-2
Morris, MB
Medicine Hat, AB
Regina, SK
Strathmore, AB
August 2-5 August 6-7 August 9-10 August 22-24 August 28-30 August 31
La Crete, AB - New Dawson Creek, BC
Lethbridge, AB Armstrong, BC
Armstrong, BC Pro Tour Final
To learn more about SMS Equipment: visit www.smsequipment.com
FINAL 2023 SMS EQUIPMENT PRO TOUR STANDINGS - up to and including IPE & Stampede -
SADDLE BRONC 1 GREEN LAYTON (14)
TIE-DOWN ROPING 1 POPESCUL JESSE (17) GLENTWORTH, SK
TR HEADER 1 TRYAN BRADY (12) 2 MCLEOD TEE (16) 3 RICHARD RHEN (12) 4 SCHMIDT TATE (16)
points
MEETING CREEK, AB
1,340 1,280 1,155 1,140
1,062 1,060
HUNTLEY, MT WALDECK, SK ROOSEVELT, UT BARRHEAD, AB
983 960 957 895 880 870 860 820 790 765 760 702 990 983 945 895 880 845 805 790 765 747
2 WANCHUK KOLBY (14) SHERWOOD PARK, AB 3 THURSTON ZEKE (14) BIG VALLEY, AB
2 BIRD LOGAN (16) 3 MEGED HAVEN (9) 4 SMITH SHANE (17) 5 HINES AUSTIN (16) 6 ELLIOTT CLAY (17) 7 CORNET COLT (16) 8 COOPER BEAU (12) 9 SPADY LOGAN (16) 10 SMITH JASON (17)
NANTON, AB MILES CITY, MT WIMBORNE, AB MARWAYNE, AB NANTON, AB BRANT, AB STETTLER, AB ALLIANCE, AB WIMBORNE, AB
970 957 950 775 765 760 745 690 673 620
4 MACZA LUCAS (16) 5 ROBERTS TYREL (16) 6 DAHM DAWSON (16) 8 ANDERSEN BEN (11) 9 FOUNTAIN LEON (10) 11 HAY DAWSON (9) 12 WATSON JAKE (14) BAREBACK 1 LAYE CLINT (15) 2 LAMB KODY (11) 4 DEITZ CHETT (16) 5 TAYPOTAT TY (12)
HIGH RIVER, AB CHARLIE LAKE BC DUFFIELD, AB
985 930. 855 835 805 790 735 685
5 GRAHAM DAWSON (11) WAINWRIGHT, AB
6 SIMPSON LEVI (17)
PONOKA, AB
7 MILLER LACHLAN (16) WARWICK, AUSTRALIA
7 MCFADDEN ROLAND (17) VULCAN, AB 8 BONNETT LOGAN (16) PONOKA, AB 9 MCLEOD TUFTIN (16) WALDECK, SK 10 SPEER TRAVIS (17) BLUE RIDGE, AB
ECKVILLE, AB CORONA, NM
10 BROWN HOUSTON (13) MILES CITY, MT, USA
WILDWOOD AB
11 WARREN RILEY (16) SUNDRE, AB 12 DUBLANKO ERIK (16) THORSBY, AB STEER WRESTLING 1 KEMP TIM (15) MITCHELL ON 2 GUENTHNER SCOTT (17) PROVOST, AB 3 CULLING STEPHEN (15) FORT ST. JOHN, BC 4 BUTTERFIELD CHANCE (16) PONOKA, AB
11 ROY RILEY (17)
MOSSLEIGH, AB
HUDSONS HOPE, BC
12 SKOCDOPOLE LUKE (15) BIG VALLEY, AB
TR HEELER 1 BUHLER JEREMY (13) ARROWWOOD, AB 2 CHAPPEL BRADY (17) MOOSE JAW, SK 3 SMITH CALGARY (12) ADAMS, OR, USA 4 BONNETT KEELY (17) PONOKA AB 5 SCHMIDT KAGEN (16) BARRHEAD, AB 6 GRAHAM DILLON (11) WAINWRIGHT, AB 7 CULLEN LOGAN (16) COURTENAY, BC 8 FLEWELLING TYREL (17) LACOMBE, AB
CADOGAN, AB
1,445 1,245 1,180 1,165 1,150 1,125 1,075
1,032 1,025
1,037
SHERWOOD PARK, AB
3 JONES STRAWBS (16) DUFFIELD, AB
955 885 881
MILO, AB
NANTON, AB
5 MILAN STRAWS (16)
COCHRANE, AB
6 SOLBERG MICHAEL (13) SUNNYNOOK, AB
6 GRANT MORGAN (17) DIDSBURY, AB 810 7 BEARDSWORTH LANDON (17) RED DEER COUNTY, AB 797 8 MILLER TY (17) WAINWRIGHT, AB 770 9 WEISGERBER CRAIG (17) PONOKA, AB 760 10 COLE HARLEY (16) OKOTOKS, AB 687 11 ELDRIDGE DAKOTA (7) ELKO, NV 647 12 CASSIDY CODY (13) DONALDA, AB 630 LADIES BARREL RACING 1 BRODOWAY LYNETTE (17) BROOKS, AB 1,125 2 MANNERING MARIAH (17) QUENSEL, BC 1,025 3 WILLS BROOKE (17) ARRAS, BC 985 4 ELLIOTT JUSTINE (16) LACOMBE, AB 980 5 WHITESIDE BRADI (17) LONGVIEW, AB 910 6 OLAFSON BERTINA (16) HUDSON BAY, SK 835 7 RUZICKA STACEY (15) BLUFFTON, AB 815 8 BEIERBACH KATE (15) MAPLE CREEK, SK 760 9 LEGGETT VANESSA (15) KAMLOOPS, BC 735 10 ROBERTS CRANNA (14) RED DEER COUNTY, AB 680 11 MACDONALD TRACI (15) ERSKINE, AB 590 12 MOLLE BLAKE (15) CHAUVIN, AB 585
7 LARSEN ORIN (9)
INGLIS, MB
8 ISABELLE PASCAL (13) CLARESHOLM, AB
980 895 825 700 665
9 MAINES WYATT (16) 10 HAY DALLAS (15)
ELKWATER, AB AUSTRALIA
9 MCLEOD TYCE (16)
WALDECK, SK
10 SIMPSON CHASE (17) CLARESHOLM, AB
11 BERTSCH DANTAN (9) PONOKA AB 12 MAZURENKO ETHAN (13) THORHILD, AB
11 ROSS DENIM (17) 12 ROMO II JOEY (15)
BOTHA, AB NANTON, AB
710 LADIES BREAKAWAY ROPING 1 BIEVER SHAYA (15) CLARESHOLM, AB 1,055 2 DALLYN JENNA (15) NANTON, AB 962 3 POMERANZ BROOKE (16) DRAYTON VALLEY, AB 915 4 HINES BAILEY (16) MARWAYNE, AB 890 5 WHITESIDE BRADI (16) LONGVIEW, AB 885 6 WHITESIDE KYLIE (16) LONGVIEW, AB 835 7 PIERSON KENDAL (11) WARDLOW, AB 830 8 BOISJOLI SHELBY (9) LANGDON, AB 795 9 BIRD LAKOTA (16) NANTON, AB 692 10 ARMSTRONG JESSIE (14) BIG VALLEY, AB 625 11 BOISJOLI MAKAYLA (13) LANGDON, AB 585 12 AUCLAIR MACY (14) ECKVILLE, AB 585
BULL RIDING 1 DURAZO EDGAR (16) MOCTEZUMA,SONORA MX 1,225 2 ROBBINS COY (15) CAMROSE, AB 1,160 3 HANSEN JORDAN (10) AMISK, AB 1,140 4 PARSONAGE JARED (14) MAPLE CREEK, SK 1,110 5 GARDNER JACOB (11) FORT ST. JOHN, BC 1,050 6 BUTTAR DAKOTA (14) EATONIA, SK 945 7 GLEESON WYATT (15) SUNDRE, AB 745 8 CRAIG TYLER (16) CROSSFIELD, AB 630 9 RADFORD BROCK (12) DEWINTON, AB 540 10 SWITZER CHANSE (14) HAZENMORE, SK 490 11 SCHMIDT CAUY (11) CORONATION, AB 475 12 PHILLIPS LONNIE (12) ELKO, BC 460
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 7
Down But Not Out
by Dave Poulsen
T he year was 2019. Clay Elliott was a two-time Canadian Champion saddle bronc rider and three-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier. He was on top of his game and on top of the world. “I was traveling the world getting on bucking horses. It was awesome. I loved it.” And then in the blink of an eye, everything changed. A serious rodeo injury at Guymon, Oklahoma brought that phase of Elliot’s life to a sudden and crushing conclusion. But if you thought you’d seen the last of
Clay Elliott in rodeo arenas, you really don’t know this second-generation cowboy very well. “I’d rode bucking horses and roped all through high school and college (Panhandle State in Oklahoma). That was where I got to decipher what I was good at and what I enjoyed the most. I had a student visa and got an education, most of it was paid for, and had a chance to figure some things out while in the midst of rodeos; it was a time in my life when I was able to think about what I wanted to be.”
Clay Elliott – 2024 Falkland Stampede photo by Gralyn Boyd
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 8
And what Clay Elliott wanted to be—and became— was a world-class bronc rider. So what happens when you’re forced to re-think your whole life plan? “When I got hurt, the first year was just like a recov - ery,” the 30- year-old explained. “It was like a broken leg to me; I was going to yoga and the gym and just wanting to heal up and get back to riding bucking horses. But after about the eighth doctor tells says you better stick to riding a bicycle, you think, hey, I better think of something else to do here. There was another year when I thought hey those doctors don’t know me, who I am and what I do, then another year when I was back to thinking, son of a gun I better fig - ure out what I’m going to do with the rest of my life.
And it was really just last year when I started to feel comfortable with it—I called it a career in bronc riding and was more at peace with it. You’d think you’d make that decision and there you go, get on with it but for me it just took a long time to get to that point.” It wasn’t like Elliott had just been sitting around with his feet up during his hiatus from rodeo. “I’d bought some land when I was riding bucking horses and during the time I was out I built a house and started to acquire some horses with some ability in the roping. There was a time there when I felt sorry for myself but that’s not me and I was able to kind of shake that and get on with stuff I enjoy.”
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 9
Clay Elliott cont...
The transition from bronc rider to tie-down roper wasn’t easy or smooth. “It’s been the same build - ing process in the roping that it was in the bronc riding,” the Nanton cowboy noted. “It took me several years to figure out bronc riding and there were ups and downs—I missed going to the NFR by $5000 the year before I actually made it. Peo - ple forget that and maybe didn’t see the years of work behind it. It’s been the same in the tie down roping, it’s not any easier just because I’ve been through it once. It’s the same process. I had to ride the wrong horses, I had to miss calves, I had to fail a lot to get to where I’m at and I’m not even close to where I’m going.” In 2023 Elliott came close to getting back to the CFR, finishing 14th in the final standings and miss - ing the trip to Red Deer by less than $3000. And so far in 2024, Elliott has been a force and sits 3rd in the early season standings, courtesy in part to a strong showing at the Maple Leaf Circuit Finals in Regina last fall where he placed in three rounds and finished 4th in the aggregate.
man when it comes to the kind of mentor Winston Bruce was to me in the bronc riding. It’s crazy how much time Cade has invested in me and helping me become a better roper. I’m really thankful for that.” But that was just the start. “I’ve got a pretty good collection of horses right now,” the five time CFR qualifier noted. One I call Jackpot, he’s older and doesn’t get to many rodeos but he’s responsible for a lot of the practice runs I make at home. I’ve got a six-year-old blue roan and he doesn’t get to a lot of rodeos either but lots of practice runs at home. Then I’ve got a chestnut called Ultimate that you’ve seen at a lot of rodeos. I’ve been riding him for about ten years and he and I kind of learned together and now he’s pretty solid. “But the two main horses I ride at rodeos – one is a horse I acquired from Tyrel Roberts, he roped off him at high school rodeos and he’s nineteen and really solid. His name is Mr. Cool and I rode him a lot last summer and will again this summer. This
When you talked with Clay Elliott about bronc riding, the conversation very quickly moved to the subject of bucking horses. That hasn’t changed except now the topic is roping horses, a topic Elliott is just as passionate about as he was about saddle broncs. He tells the story with typical Elliott insight and humour. “It was 2020 and I knew I had some goals I wanted to reach in the roping and I had some decent horses. I’d got to know (seven-time WNFR qualifier) Cade Swor while I was rodeoing and I called him up out of the blue and asked him if he could maybe help me attain some of the goals I had for myself in tie-down roping. He said ‘absolutely – get your butt down here’. And I’ve been doing that, going down there for a month or so at a time a couple of times a year. And he’s been my main
Clay Elliott, 2023 Medicine Lodge Rodeo. Dallas Duffy photo
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 10
winter I spent quite a bit of time with Lane Livingston, a roper from Seymour, Texas (Livingston-trained horses have been runner up PRCA Horse of the Year twice). I acquired a horse from him this past fall. He’s five, a son of Metallic Rebel and I’ve ridden him quite a bit this spring. I think he’s going to be a good horse for me for a pretty long time. I call him Wily and there’s a story behind that name. Lane and I were doing some cattle work out in this 300 acre wheat field and he’s on one side and I’m on the other riding this horse and sure enough there’s a coyote out in the middle of the field so I trot toward him and he kind of hangs around so I drop my hand and this horse just cows down on this coyote and the coyote, he’s duckin’ and divin’ and sure enough I got my rope on him. So we got some pictures and the joke is I tried this horse out on a coyote and he was good so now he’s my rope horse.” As for where he is now, Elliott knows there’s more to do despite what he’s accomplished at the timed event end of the arena. And there have been some moments that have proven to Elliot and others that he belongs.
“There was a run I made at Brooks last year to win second on a stronger red calf I ran about halfway down the arena but that run kind of told me I could hang, and kind of stands out in my mind; I felt really good about it. And also last year at Moses Lake Washington I was 8.4 and won second roping against Riley Webb, Shad Mayfield and Shane Hanchey, all those NFR guys. That felt really good. “My goal is to win a Canadian title in the next five years. Actually I said that last year so I’m down to four. Mostly I want to prove to myself and to the people who believe in me that a guy can bounce back and change directions and be successful. When I’m 65 or 70 years old, I think I’ll be able to look back and see that I had a great career in the bronc riding, then there was a setback but I was able to set new goals and destinations. I don’t know if anybody will appre - ciate it other than me and maybe my kids, but there might be a few people who will see me as someone who had to face a big obstacle and was able to over - come it.”
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 11
Canadian Finals Rodeo Payout Increases for 2024
W ith the 2024 edition of the Canadian Fi - nals Rodeo (CFR) set for Oct 2-5 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, AB, the CPRA is excit - ed to announce an increase to the contestant payout from $1,455,00 (2023) to $1,508,000. $1,480,000 in total will be paid out in the major events (Bareback, Saddle Bronc, Bull Riding, Tie-Down Roping, Steer Wrestling, Ladies Barrel Racing and Team Roping). An additional $28,000 will be spread across the three junior events (Novice Bareback and Saddle Bronc and Steer Riding).
All of these numbers are exclusive of the Breakaway Roping payout which will fea - ture the top twelve contestants in all per- formances. But BAW prize money will come from a separate bucket of money, partially funded by the CPRA and partially funded through the efforts of the breakaway ropers themselves. CPRA General Manager Denny Phipps notes, “The CFR is one of the highest paying rodeos in the world where the top 12 athletes in major events, top 6 Steer Riders, and top 3 Novice Bareback and Saddle Bronc riders via for high dollars and Canadian Championships.”
PAYOUT: * 7 Major events (BB, SB, BR, TDR, SW, TR, LBR) will be $185,000/event (per side in the TR) for a total of $1,480,000. * Novice BB and NSB (featured in the first 3 performances) - $9,000/event * Steer Riding (featured in the first four performances) - $10,000
PAYOUT STRUCTURE FOR MAJOR EVENTS:
Go Round $11,100.00 $8,253.85 $5,407.69 $2,561.54 $1,138.46 $28,461.54
Aggregate (1.5 value to a go round)
1st
$16,650.00 $12,380.77 $8,111.54 $3,842.31 $1,707.69 $42,692.31
2nd 3rd 4th 5th
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 12
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Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 13
PONOKA STAMPEDE
by Dianne Finstad
C owboy Christmas will be richer than ever this summer, thanks to the cowboy commitment of the Ponoka Stampede. The Ponoka Stampede Association made the bold move of bumping the purse for each of the major events up to $60,000, including both headers and heelers in team roping. Already the top paying individual rodeo in Canada outside the Canadian Finals Rodeo, Ponoka’s directors decided it was time to do more. “We’ve been at $55,000 for a while,” explains Ponoka Stampede Association President Rick Wierzba. “With inflation and everything, we just want to help the cowboys out as much as we can. They’re the foundation of our sport. We always just feel if we can give back, we should. That’s a big thing for us.” It’s a big thing for rodeo in Canada as well, and has many competitors making Cowboy Christmas travel plans to include the town of 7500 for the June 25-July first event. “It’s really exciting to have one of the top 25 paying rodeos in the world drawing all the wolves of the world up to compete,” says CPRA General Manager Denny Phipps. “It’s an exciting format and speaks to the level of the rodeo to have so many willing to come back for a short go (the Showdown Round) at a busy rodeo time of the year. That kind of money can be a game changer for the CFR for sure, and for the NFR as well.” The prize money increase comes on the heels of back-to-back record years for the Ponoka Stampede, with weekly attendance topping 100,000.
“It’s been quite amazing, honestly,” marvels Weirzba. He credits a combination of factors for the success and growth, including the addition of the Wild West suites building, which has boosted corporate sponsorship and involve- ment. Last year the Showdown Dance Hall debuted to become a hot spot for fans at the grounds. This year’s Honorary Ponoka Stampede Presi - dent is Barrie Carter, who’s been on the board since 1974, and was a leader in bringing more sponsorship to the event. “I think one of the biggest reasons Ponoka has been a success is because the main goal always is to put on the best show that you could – best stock, best cowboys, best facil - ities, best everything, and treat the fans like they were kings” says Carter. Contestants do appreciate having a shot at the big bucks, which can bring them a lot closer to their year-end goals. For example, capturing his third Ponoka Stampede Saddle Bronc Championship last year helped Zeke Thurston on his way to a fourth World Gold Buckle. The Big Valley cowboy (who was fea - tured on the 2023 Ponoka Stampede poster) set a season-earnings record of $456,356, with $18,000 of that from Ponoka. “This is top five rodeos of the year in the entire world, it doesn’t matter where you go,” said Thurston, after collecting the spoils of his Ponoka victory. “This is one of the best rodeos you’ll ever go to. It’s a cowboy’s rodeo. It’s western, and great bucking horses. It’s darn sure my favorite rodeo.”
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 14
Nick Tetz, 2023 Ponoka Stampede Bull Riding Champion. Covy Moore photo
Ponoka Stampede story cont... Orin Larsen managed to capture his first Ponoka bareback championship last year and the nearly $16,000 in winnings pushed him on to a ninth NFR qualification, as well as his sixth Canadia Finals where he was runner-up for the year end title. It was Larsen’s third time in the Ponoka Showdown round, making the win even more special. “I’ve been coming here for over a decade, so I’ve been waiting for this one for a while,” said Larsen. Coming off a slow winter spent rehabbing a knee injury, he’d like nothing more than to repeat a Ponoka win to make up for some lost ground in the standings. “I’m so excited for Ponoka this year,” the Manito - ba-raised hand stated. “It’s my favorite rodeo.” Ponoka Stampede also recognizes the impor - tance of providing the right kind of rodeo stock to attract the best contestants, and that will be front and center in 2024 as well. The Stampede poster features the much-decorated Canadian horse
Virgil, from the Bar C5 outfit, with Rocker Stein - er on board. Virgil was the 2023 bareback horse of the Ponoka Stampede. And when it comes to the annual Three-Mile-Long Ponoka parade, this year’s theme is a Salute to the Stock Contractors. Longtime lead contractor Wayne Vold will serve as the parade marshal. “I think it’s a wonderful. I’m just as proud as Ponoka Stampede is, about saluting all the great contractors we’ve got here, because we’ve got good ones. There’s no doubt! I can’t say enough about our Canadian stock contractors. The one thing I will say is they all bring the best they’ve got to Ponoka, and we’re proud of that too,” emphasizes Vold, a Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer and two-time Canadian Saddle Bronc Champion. In addition to Vold’s own stock, this year’s Ponoka Stampede contractor line-up includes C5 Rodeo Company, Macza Pro Rodeo, Duane Kesler, Cal - gary Stampede, Legend Rodeo Stock and Outlaw Buckers. Having a wide range of the best bucking stock fits perfectly with the Ponoka Stampede’s overall mission, according to Wayne Vold.
Orin Larsen, 2023 Ponoka Stampede Bareback Champion. Shellie Scott photo
Canadian Rodeo News –May, 2024 – 16
“They want to be the best rodeo, and I’m saying that they are. As a primary stock contractor at Ponoka, I’m very proud of this rodeo. They’ve come a long way with their prize money. They’ve got a great Stampede board. They’ve got sixty thousand bucks up in each event. That’s in the top paying ro - deos on the planet. It’s a big deal. I’m very proud of Ponoka. It would look good on anybody’s resume. We’ve been a part of it for a long time. It’s a good one,” says Vold. “We want to make the Stampede as successful as we can. That’s why we do it, and to keep the sport alive. It’s a big community effort, for sure. We have the co - operation of the town, and county, and the support of central Alberta to make it happen. Lot of groups come in from surrounding communities to help out, as their fundraisers. Bigger cities don’t have summer events that come anywhere close to size of Ponoka Stampede,” adds PSA President Wierzba.
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Zeke Thurston, 2023 Saddle Bronc Champion, Rick Wierzba, Mackenzie Skeels & Kayle Shantz. Covy Moore photo
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Kade Sonnier on C5 Rodeo’s Virgil. Covy Moore photo
Canadian Rodeo News –May, 2024 – 17
Sport Med Corner - May 2024
R odeo isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifestyle that demands strength, agility, and resilience. From the intense physical strain of the ride to the relentless impact on the body, rodeo athletes face unique challenges that require top- notch performance. That’s where chiropractic care steps in, offering a holistic approach to enhancing athletic ability and promoting overall well-being. Understanding Chiropractic Care Chiropractic care isn’t just about back adjust - ments—it’s a comprehensive practice focused on optimizing the body’s neuromusculoskeletal system. This includes bones, muscles, joints, nerves, and more. By ensuring proper alignment and function of these vital components, chiro - practors help rodeo athletes reach their peak performance and minimize the risk of injuries.
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 18
The Benefits for Rodeo Athletes Chiropractors employ a range of techniques tailored to the specific needs of rodeo athletes. From gentle adjustments to targeted soft tissue therapies, these treatments aim to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall athletic performance. Imagine riding with greater flexibility, strength, and coordina - tion—chiropractic care makes it possible. Beyond the Arena: Long-Term Results But the benefits of chiropractic care extend far beyond the arena. By addressing underlying issues and pro - moting proper biomechanics, chiropractors help rodeo athletes recover faster and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. This means more time doing what you love and less time sidelined by pain and discomfort. Proven Success The effectiveness of chiropractic care is well-docu - mented, with studies showing its positive impact on common issues like neck and back pain, as well as more complex conditions like concussions. And it’s not just about treating injuries—chiropractic care plays a crucial role in injury prevention, keeping ath - letes healthy and performing at their best.
Joining the Movement If you’re a rodeo athlete looking to elevate your performance and prioritize your long-term health, chiropractic care could be the key. By incorporating regular treatments into your training and recovery routine, you’ll experience improved strength, agility, and resilience. Don’t let pain hold you back—embrace the power of chiropractic care and unleash your full potential both inside and outside the arena.
To find a CPRSMT Chiropractor near you, head to https:// www.prorodeosportmed.com/find-a-caregiver-2/
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 19
Second Generation Ropers Aim
T his isn’t your father’s team roping. And a couple of kids are front and center in mak - ing that idiom a reality. At 17 and 19 years of age, Kavis Drake and Denim Ross have put the rest of the ropers on the Canadian pro rodeo trail on notice that they’re coming for a championship. “That’s one of the goals for us this year,” confides Ross, the elder member of the new partnership, which held down the number one spots in the CPRA heading and heeling standings as of mid- May. “Making the CFR is the number one goal and maybe in the years to come, we’ll try for the NFR.” And why not? They’ve got the pedigree, the skills, the support and, despite their young age, years of experience on their side.
“Oh, I don’t know, I’ve had a rope in may hand for long as I can remember,” muses Ross when asked when he started roping.” I want to say I start - ed team roping when I was about four. I kind of always headed up until about grade five or six and then I started heeling ever since.” It’s a similar story for Drake, who won a dum - my roping championship at the ripe old age of 21-months and bought his pro card at 15. “I’m still competing in high school rodeo in Sas - katchewan,” confirms Drake whose home base is Moose Jaw except during the summer when he bunks with the Ross family near Botha, AB.
Lea Park Rodeo Committee photo
Kavis Drake and Denim Ross, 2023 Agribition Maple Leaf Ciruit Finals. Chantelle Bowman photo
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 18
“When I finish school, I go live with them. We know each other really good, practice every day and both like to go fast.” The similarities don’t stop there. They’ve both won championships at the high school level in their re - spective provinces. Drake is a two-time and defending heading champion in Saskatchewan while Ross won the Alberta heeling title with brother, Randon, in 2021. And both have plenty of experience competing at the National High School Finals Rodeo. “I’ve gone to nationals every year,” offers Drake. “In my grade ten year, I roped with Colter Dunn and we won the first round and finished third in the world.” by Tim Ellis For the Top
Denim Ross and Clay McNichol. In fact, they posted the fastest time in the championship round that year (2022). But Ross and Drake had formed their bond long before that. “I’ve known him for as long as I can remember,” reveals Ross, who finished 10th at last year’s Nation - al High School Finals Rodeo while roping with sister, Aubrey. “He just turns the steer every single time for first. He’s super easy to travel with and good to be around.” “If I turn one, he’s got it. I don’t have to worry about him,” says Drake in returning compliments towards his heeling partner. “I didn’t have this much won by July last year so it’s been good.”
And who finished fourth in the world that year?
Kavis Drake and Denim Ross, 2023 Maple Leaf Circuit Finals Champions. Chantelle Bowman photo
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 19
Kavis Drake/Denim Ross cont...
And, while indeed it’s not their father’s team roping, there’s no doubt that both of their fathers have had a heavy influence on their success.
both Taber and Coleman, Ross and Drake had in - dividual earnings of just over 81-hundred-dollars. That’s nearly forty percent of the total needed to qualify for last year’s Canadian Finals Rodeo, lead -
“It was pretty cool roping with my dad my first year on the pro trail,” offers Drake, who teamed up with his father, Kent in 2022 to finish in the top 25 of the CPRA team roping standings while competing at fifteen rodeos.
ing one to speculate that Drake’s first CFR appearance and a third trip to the Finals for Ross may be in the offing. “I missed the CFR by about fifteen hundred dollars last year,” says Drake. “This money takes some weight off of our shoulders for sure.”
I’ve known him for as long as I can remember... he just turns the steer every single time for first.
“The year I was born, he missed the CFR by four hundred dollars or something. Then he stopped to start a family and went to some CCA rodeos. Then when I said I wanted to go, we came out here for that year.”
“Getting to the CFR was a great experience,” suggests Ross. “I learned to enjoy moment. After all, this is what we want to do forever, right.”
Ross didn’t get the chance to rope alongside his dad, Rocky, on the pro trail. But he did team up with his father’s old partner, Marty Lillico, in his first year. “I’ve heard some of the stories about their run,” chuckles Ross, who wasn’t born yet when his dad and Lillico won two Wildrose Rodeo Association titles together before qualifying for their first of five con - secutive CFR appearances. “Marty taught me about how to enter, how to check the draws, pay fees and a bunch of other stuff. And my dad’s always there to answer any questions I have.” After winning the Maple Leaf Circuit Finals in Regina in December and placing at
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 22
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 21
Falkland Stampede Highlights A man’s home is his cast… uh… van.
“I knew the horse’s name but I didn’t really re - member her. But when they ran her in there, then I remembered. She’s kind of famous with her own [special] halter and everything. I was pretty excited to draw her,” the 2023 CFR qualifier commented. “She rolls out of there and gets up underneath herself and helps you spur. It felt like she was really kicking that day,” Roberts added. “She made a nice little circle to the left right by the judges. It was a little bit wild for a while there and I really had to get under my rein and under my swells. But she was fun and it worked out.” The Falkland win was coupled with a third place cheque Roberts picked up across the line at Central Point, Oregon where a 78 pt ride netted him $1157. The weekend results fit right in with the goals the young cowboy has for the 2024 season. “My plan is to prioritize the Canadian rodeos but we’ll go back and forth to some of the bigger American rodeos as well.”
If you’re saddle bronc rider, Tyrel Roberts, and you live in northern British Columbia, there are maybe four Canadian Professional Rodeo Association stops that are reasonably close to the home place, located in Charlie Lake (40 minutes from Fort St. John). Thus the need for a vehicle that can double as transporta - tion and accommodation during rodeo season. “I’ve got pretty well everything I need and got except for my horses in the van with me,” the 23-year-old quipped as he made his way toward Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement for the first SMS Equipment Pro Tour rodeo of the 2024 season. This past weekend, Roberts rolled his caravan into another BC stop, this one the popular Falkland Stam- pede, and came away with a well-earned victory riding Macza Pro Rodeo’s 6 Squash Blossom Steely Dan to an impressive 86.5 point effort for $1687.
Tyrel Roberts on Macza Rodeo’s Squash Blossom Steely Dan. 2024 Falkland Stampede photo by Gralyn Boyd
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 24
Bradi Whiteside – 2024 Falkland Stampede photo by Billie-Jean Duff
That plan includes getting back to the CFR and work - ing towards the talented bronc rider’s bigger goals. “I want to keep making the CFR and eventually win Canada a time or two and one of these days soon get to the NFR as well.” Roberts comes from a ranching background with a little rodeo thrown in. “My dad and his brother figured they were riding broncs all the time at the ranch so they might as well try to ride some at the rodeos but it didn’t work out as well as they thought,” he chuckled. “But my parents made the World Series of Team Roping and my brother steer wrestled so rodeo was definitely a big deal for us. “For me, I saw some bronc riding on TV when I was about five years-old and I knew that was exactly what I wanted to do.” After a solid novice career and a productive 2023 sea - son, the young cowboy looks ready to take the next step in what is shaping up to be a long and successful career. He spent the winter on the south side of the
49th parallel, all part of the career development of an up and coming rough stock hand. “It was kind of a long winter. I didn’t draw that good at most of the places I went so I was pretty excited to be coming back to Canada and getting on some good bucking horses up here.” After a big win at Falkland that will see the BC talent move up from the tenth place ranking he had entering the weekend, we’ll be seeing Tyrel Roberts at CPRA rodeos throughout 2024. He’ll be the guy in the van. Two-event cowgirl Bradi Whiteside has been a picture of consistency through the early stages of the 2024 rodeo season and the Longview, AB athlete continued to set a torrid pace in both of her events. Whiteside picked up a 5-6 spilt in the Falkland barrel race and won the breakaway roping with a 2.0 flat for a tidy $2650 haul out of British Columbia. The second gen - eration horsewoman will climb a few notches in the breakaway standings where she was sitting fifth head - ing into the weekend and will maintain a solid hold on second-place in the barrel racing standings as well.
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2024 – 25
WHO KNEW!
by Tim Ellis
The three time Canadian Finals Rodeo qualifier is making a bid for a fourth qualification after a strong start to the 2024 season that has the Clive, Alberta cowgirl sitting 4th in the Canadian standings.
Ponoka Stampede photo by Jeremy Wombold
BEST PART OF RODEO ...............
The atmosphere, the excitement of each rodeo and how rodeo is one big family. The mental game. When you’re on a high to stay on the high and also not to let the lows get too low. Candy for sure. My favourite is called Gusher Joints. Probably neither. I’m an energy drink person. My favourite right now is the Celsius Energy Drink... Guava flavour. To make CFR this year To keep making CFR every year. Lately I’ve been playing pickleball. There’s a little league in Clive. It’s a lot of fun and good exercise too. Let’s go Edmonton Oilers. Definitely eating out, I can’t cook. So a steakhouse, maybe The Rooster at Clive. They have a really good steak night. You cook it yourself, and they give you potatoes and all-you-can-eat salad. I’d have to say Cody Johnson. ‘Doubt Me Now’ is a favourite. The year I won Ponoka and made the final four with my travelling partner Kerilee Noval. (And the story behind the pink shirt you were wearing that day?) It’s pretty ugly but I used to wear it in Jr Barrel Racing for Showdowns and I used to win the Showdowns. It was like my lucky shirt. I hadn’t worn it in years but I found it and Kerilee bet me that I had to wear it if I made the final four. My mom. I learned everything from her. She’s been my coach the whole time; she cheers me on and lets me steal her horse. She’s been my support my whole life.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE ...............
FAVOURITE ON THE ROAD FOOD ...... TIM HORTONS OR STARBUCKS ..... SHORT TERM GOAL ............... LONG TERM GOAL ............... ACTIVITIES AWAY FROM RODEO .... FAVOURITE SPORTS TEAM ......... DINNER DATE - COOK OR EAT OUT ...
FAVOURITE SONG OR BAND ............. PERSONAL RODEO HIGHLIGHT .............
SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN RODEO ...
Canadian Rodeo News – March, 2024 – 26
Canadian Rodeo News – March, 2024 – 27
F rom the Rodeo Trail A fter a night of misfortune and deprivation in Medicine Hat, Tyler Craig headed off to Dawson Creek ready to redeem himself. But, as the boys will say, “That’s just rodeoin’.”
by Darby-rae Crouch
third pro rodeo of the Canadian season. After a Friday night performance in Dawson Creek with no bulls rode, the stakes were high for someone to walk away with a pile of money. Before the rodeo, the three bull riders spent some time together in the back pens discussing the night’s matchups.
On April 20, Tyler Craig, along with Tanner Eno and Dawson Shannon, rolled into British Columbia for the
Tyler Craig on Vold Rodeo’s 522 Vertigo Spy. 2023 CFR photo by Chantelle Bowman
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2023 – 28
They were joined by the man known as the “wild child” – bullfighter Ty Prescott. The trio were not entirely familiar with the bulls they drew, but by the end of their conversa - tion with Prescott, they (sort of) got a sense. The highlight of the night was Tyler and Jungle Spot from Vold Pro Rodeo. “Man, you got the pick of the night! You’re going to win this thing if you stay on!” explained Ty Prescott. Little to Tyler’s knowledge, everyone had their eyes set on him and that bull that night. The timers, the announcer, stock contractors, and everyone alike talked about him before the rodeo began. I even remember walking past the rodeo office and overhearing, “I think that Tyler Craig is going to get it done tonight.” Once Tyler nodded his head and that gate latch opened, he proved to everyone that he was worth putting money on. After an 85-point ride, he waited anxiously to see how his friends and fellow competitors would perform. Once the dust settled, Craig ended up being the only cowboy to make a ride for the entire Rodeo – walking away with the entire pot. After onversations with Prescott, I wondered how Tyler felt, knowing he was the pick of the night. “I’ve felt pressured like this before and didn’t capitalize on it. So, this time around, I just reminded myself to keep it simple and do what I know how to do, and it worked out!” said Craig. Being the only bull rider to stay on meant he walked away with the entire payout, the ground money, and the day money. Together, these amounted to $8,718.94! It’s an incredible way to start the season, catapulting him to sec - ond in the standings, only about $700 behind the season leader Jacob Gardner. “It felt great to be able to start the year off with a win like that. Very rarely does it happen that nobody stays on a bull, so to capitalize on an opportunity like that was a great way to start my season,” said Tyler following his win in Dawson Creek. It’s only May, but if Tyler keeps up the good riding, he will be making that second trip to the Canadian Finals Rodeo. Tanner Eno and Dawson Shannon are enjoying comeback seasons after facing injuries, surgeries and a lot of time off. The trio could be Edmonton-bound at the end of this season!
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2023 – 29
Kaylee Shantz I I had a blast starting the month of April off on the right foot, or should I say boot? I had the pleasure of getting
to know the team better at the Chinook location Lammles, picking out some new clothes and doing some shopping! I then made my way to High River for the Miss Rodeo Canada Alumni clinic. It was such a pleasure to connect with girls on all different paths of life. All of us coming together for a shared passion of rodeo and the role of being an ambassador was exhilarating! I was so thankful to be able to impart some of my knowledge and encour - age the girls on their journey. Driving my Innisfail Chrysler Ram 1500 down the QE2 to our capital city of Edmon - ton I had a wonderful sponsor tour with Cowan Graphics Inc., Chateau Lacombe, 840 CFCW, Lammle’s and Edmonton’s Best Hotels! I love connecting with the incredi - ble organizations that keep me on the road and expressing my gratitude whenever I can! I then took a trip to our friends at the Calgary Stampede for the canvas auction! I cheered on our chuckwagon drivers as they received sponsorships and exchanged hearty handshakes. I am so excited to watch the Rangeland Derby this year and stomp my boots loud as they come down the home stretch! Smithbilt Hats Inc. was my next stop as I had to check out the new building! It was so cool to see how the progress was com - ing and catch up with the team as they prepare for the big move!
Canadian Rodeo News – May, 2023 –30
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