Under sunny skies and beautiful temperatures, the Division 2 Alberta Junior High and High School Fall Rodeo transformed the Vermilion Ag Grounds into a lively arena of athleticism and tradition from August 31 to September 2. Young athletes from across the region gathered to demonstrate their rodeo prowess, embodying the spirit of competition and the values of the Western heritage.
The Junior Rodeo, featuring students from grades 5-8, kicked off on Saturday, August 31, at noon, resuming again on Sunday, September 1, at 9 a.m.
“With grade 5 to grade 12 members competing together, it allows for a huge opportunity for mentorship to happen, “ said Carla Pocock, secretary for the D2 The Alberta High School Rodeo Association.
The events were a thrilling display of skill and determination, starting with Bareback Steers and swiftly moving through a packed lineup that included Barrel Racing, Ribbon Roping, Tie Down Roping, and Breakaway Roping for the boys. As the competition heated up, the crowd was treated to Chute Dogging, and Goat Tying, split into separate boys’ and girls’ divisions, as well as Breakaway Roping for the girls division and Saddle Bronc Steers before the action took a brief intermission.
The afternoon session reignited the excitement with Team Roping, Bull Riding, and Pole Bending, Ribbon Roping – Perf 2, Tie Down Roping – Perf 2, Breakaway Roping (Boys and then girls) Perf – 2, Chute Dogging – Perf 2, Goat Tying split once again in separate boys and girls divisions with each event showcasing the grit and agility of these young competitors. Sunday brought another round of heart-pounding action in the Junior Division, with athletes giving it their all in events like Barrel Racing, Team Roping, Bull Riding and the always thrilling Pole Bending.
High school rodeo athletes, ranging from grades 9-12, took center stage on Sunday afternoon and carried the momentum into Monday, September 2. The older competitors kept the audience on the edge of their seats as they tackled Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc, and Barrel Racing with confidence and skill as well as in the Tie Down Roping and Breakaway categories. After a brief intermission, the excitement continued with Goat Tying, Steer Wrestling, and the high-stakes Team Roping and Bull Riding events, culminating in the ever-popular Pole Bending.
The Alberta High School Rodeo Association (AHSRA) played a crucial role in organizing this event, providing these young athletes with a platform to not only compete but also develop leadership and mentorship skills. As members of the National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA), the AHSRA adheres to the highest standards of sportsmanship and conduct, while also promoting the preservation of Western heritage and the values of family bonding and education.
The weekend was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of youth, tradition, and the enduring spirit of the rodeo, leaving spectators and participants alike with lasting memories of a thrilling showcase of Alberta’s future rodeo stars.
Kommentare