Southern Alberta Athletes Ready for Calgary Stampede Rodeo

Athletes from the Foothills will add to the grandeur of the largest outdoor show in the world.

Five competitors from the region, including a former champion, will compete at the 2024 Calgary Stampede Rodeo, held July 5-14 at GMC Stadium.

The expanded format, first introduced in 2023, sees 30 competitors in each event divided into three pools. The top four in each pool earn a spot in Showdown Sunday, which this year will be supported by red-clad gear from those attending the event.

“We are excited to paint GMC Stadium red as we crown our 2024 Calgary Stampede champions,” said Kristina Barnes, director of agriculture and western events for the Calgary Stampede. “This year’s field is exceptional and features some fantastic homegrown talent. We know they will put it all on the line for a shot at the championship, all while being cheered on by the Red Hot Sunday crowd.”

In steer wrestling, Okotoks’ Harley Cole is in the field for the third consecutive Stampede. Cole is having a strong season and is ranked third in the Canadian rankings.

The saddle bronc looks promising for the local contingent. Millarville’s Layton Green, a finalist at last year’s event, returns to the field as the 13^e ranked Canadian. High River’s Lucas Macza, by far the highest-earning player on the Canadian tour, is set to make his mark in Calgary as well.

Foothills Composite graduate Jordan Hansen, who now calls Amisk home, is gunning for a second championship in Calgary. The veteran bull rider won the Stampede buckle in 2021.

The Rocky Mountain Cup, which features breakaway roping and team roping, will be held July 9 at the Nutrien Western Event Center on the Stampede grounds by Bradi Whiteside of Longview.

Whiteside, a barrel racing and breakaway roping athlete, will start in second place in the Canadian roping standings along with her sister Kylie.

This year marks the second time that the breakaway roping competition has been part of the Stampede Rodeo program.

For more information about the Calgary Stampede Rodeo, visit calgarystampede.com.