The Calgary Stampede is coined the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” This iconic event has earned this reputation, as it packs ten days with events catering to a plethora of interests and demographics.
All is kicked off with an elaborate parade weaving through downtown Calgary and spanning several kilometres. Each year, the parade selects a deserving and influential individual to act as parade marshal. For 2024, that honour was bestowed on indigenous actor Owen Crow Shoe. Crow Shoe has been attending the Calgary Stampede most of his life with family. Just prior to the events of the Calgary Stampede, this actor portrayed a character in the epic series Horizon. The horsemanship developed in his role on this show made him a great fit for the role of parade marshal.
This year’s Calgary Stampede was truly one for the books — more people took in the events of this exhibition than ever before. Officials say a new attendance record for the 10 days of festivities was set, with 1,477,953 people walking through the gates of Stampede Park. This number isn’t surprising, as the Calgary Stampede offers something for all ages—midway rides and games, food, shopping, free entertainment, concerts with iconic bands and musicians, and exhibits.
However, it is the rodeo that started it all and captures the attention of multi-generations. Attending the rodeo at the Calgary Stampede is a tradition some have shared with family and friends for generations. The rodeo events of 2024 certainly didn’t disappoint, crowning some very deserving rodeo competitors.
BULL RIDING The Stampede judges opted to crown Jeff Askey and Chase Dougherty — both of whom were bucked off in the two-man championship go-round — co-kings of the 2024 edition.
BAREBACK RC Landingham atop Virgil won in the showdown round to win the bareback title. He was pleased to receive $50,000 in addition to a souvenir bronze statue.
SADDLE BRONC won by cowboy Kade Bruno after a ride-off to determine the winner.
BARREL RACING Aboard her horse, Gus, Leslie Smalygo completed the cloverleaf-pattern course in 16.94 seconds.
TIE-DOWN ROPING Haven Meged, with his horse, Little Punch, stopped the clock at 6.7 6.7s to finish first in the tie-down roping finals for the $50,000 payday.
STEER WRESTLING Ty Erickson shook off recent ankle surgery to power through for the steer-wrestling title at the Stampede.
CHUCKWAGON RACE won by driver Jason Glass, driving the Birchcliff Energy Ltd. outfit, along with outriders Dayton Sutherland.
INDIAN RELAY RACE won by the team In It 2 Win It, earning the distinction of having the fastest aggregate time over ten nights of racing.
The Calgary Stampede promises fun and exhilaration for audiences of all ages. For equine enthusiasts, the events and activities at the ten-day exhibition are vast and varied.
Calgary Stampede FAQ Click here to know before you go!
Article by Amber Zierath, a Calgary-based, equine focused writer and the author of best-selling fiction novel Horse Karma. When she isn’t writing, you’ll find her with the horses; riding bareback in the mountains or spending time with the 60 geldings that inspire her. Learn more at amberzierath.com
Photography provided by the Calgary Stampede
