Ponoka Stampede

We took some good advice and went to the Ponaka Stampede before the Calgary Stampede. It has the same cowboys as in Calgary but you are much closer to the action. It was also a lot cheaper than the Calgary Stampede. Since we saw the bronc riding and bull riding, we saved a lot of money by not seeing it again at Calgary.

They were having a raffle for all these cows.

Lady trick riding.

Texas is not the only place that likes Long Horns.

This was the wild horse race. The horses have a rope on them when they come out of the chute. The 3 people have to saddle it and one of them has to ride it. The one who stays in the saddle the longest wins.

I missed the shot of the guys being dragged away while holdings on to the rope. I think the winner lasted about 2 seconds.

Storm Clouds started to roll in when there was a break in the show.

Enough people came by camper.

After the break they started with the wild pony race. This time it was young kids and wild ponies.

I don't think anyone actually mounted the ponies.

All the ponies were milling around the field.

The gate opened up and this little guy rode out. He can't be more than 7 years old and he was bare back.Two of the adults moved their horses forward like they were going to give him a hand and the look he gave them said it all. "BACK OFF! I've got this covered".

And away he went to a huge applause

Time for the Chuck Wagon Races.

This is Donna and Dwight's other daughter Vickie.

Always looking for a hug.

Dwight Yoakum was the featured performer for the Ponoka Stampede.  We couldn't see his face under the big hat.  Then they let all the people rush up to the stage.  We chose to remain in our seats.