Lakeland College’s Rodeo Club once again brought the excitement of the Wild West to the equine centre with its annual Little Royal Rodeo, held from March 7-9. The event, rich in history and tradition, attracted a vibrant crowd eager to witness the skill, speed, and grit of competitors in various rodeo events.
Originally known as the Little International when it began as a livestock show in 1927, the event evolved into the Little Royal Rodeo two years later, expanding to showcase agricultural and home economics displays from students of the Vermilion School of Agriculture, which later became Lakeland College. For forty years, the rodeo was a highlight of the college calendar before experiencing a decline in the 1970s. However, in 1986, it made a triumphant return, with an unexpected surge in attendance as nearly 3,000 spectators packed the stands—twice the expected turnout.
This year’s action-packed weekend kicked off with the 37th annual Western Canadian Judging Competition (WCJC) on March 7. Featuring both intercollegiate teams and the provincial 4-H judging competition, the event saw contestants put their expertise to the test by evaluating livestock and crop classes.
Saturday’s schedule began early, with Lakeland’s Stockman’s Club hosting the highly anticipated Little Royal Steer and Heifer Show. Weigh-ins took place from 8 to 9 a.m., setting the stage for a successful show that started at 10 a.m. The 2025 Little Royal Results:
Champion Open steer was Shae Noble. Reserve Open steer was Brielle Eggen.
Champion Open heifer was Dakota Noble, and Reserve was Haylee Cusack.
Champion Junior steer was Briar Blanchette, and Reserve was Brielle Eggen.
Champion Junior heifer was Dakota Noble, and Reserve was Shelton Grabler By mid-afternoon, the stands were already buzzing with energy as spectators gathered for the rodeo slack at 1 p.m., a prelude to the main rodeo performance at 6 p.m. As the rodeo action heated up, the beer gardens opened, adding to the lively atmosphere.
The night’s thrilling lineup of events included bareback riding, pole bending, tie-down roping, breakaway roping, saddle bronc riding, goat tying, steer wrestling, barrel racing, team roping, and bull riding. Spectators cheered as competitors showcased their agility, strength, and determination in each event.
The excitement resumed on Sunday, March 9, with another round of slack at 9 a.m., leading into the final rodeo performance at 1 p.m.
First year Equine student, Haylie Ost, won the average in poles.
Lakeland College extends congratulations to all competitors and a sincere thank you to the volunteers, organizers, and sponsors who made this event possible. The Little Royal Rodeo remains a cherished tradition, bringing together the community to celebrate the spirit of rodeo and the dedication of student athletes. With another successful year in the books, excitement is already building for next year’s rodeo showdown!
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