The Ponoka Stampede is incredibly proud to congratulate Wayne Vold and Vold Rodeo Ltd. on being named the 2026 Stock Contractor of the Year!
For the Vold family, rodeo and the Ponoka Stampede share a history that stretches back generations.
Wayne is a second-generation stock contractor who followed in the footsteps of his father, legendary stock contractor Harry Vold. The Vold family’s connection to Ponoka goes all the way back to the early days of the Stampede, when Harry brought horses to Ponoka before becoming its primary stock contractor.
Wayne eventually took over the Canadian operation and built Vold Rodeo Ltd., continuing a family tradition that has helped shape the quality of rodeo in Ponoka for decades.
And for Wayne, this award belongs to far more than one person.
“I really appreciate this,” Wayne said. “It all comes together with all the hard work and organization Team Vold puts in… everyone on the team. It takes a lot of effort. And we never quit trying to improve our stock. We’re always looking for new horses and bulls. Vold Rodeo is alive and well because of our great team.”
That commitment to continually raising the bar is something we know well in Ponoka. Year after year, Wayne and Team Vold have played an important role in bringing outstanding bucking stock and world-class rodeo action to the Ponoka Stampede.
Wayne has previously said of Ponoka, “I’m very proud of this rodeo… We’ve been a part of it for a long time. It’s a good one.”
The feeling is certainly mutual.
From the generations of the Vold family who have travelled through our parade to the incredible livestock that continues to enter our arena, the Vold name is woven into the history of the Ponoka Stampede.
Congratulations to Wayne, Nansen Vold and the entire Vold Rodeo Ltd. team on this well-deserved recognition as the 2026 Stock Contractor of the Year.
We are proud to have you as part of the Ponoka Stampede family and even prouder to celebrate this incredible achievement with you.
Congratulations to 2x Ponoka Stampede Bareback Champion Richmond Champion on an incredible career.
Thank you for everything you’ve given to the sport of rodeo, to bareback riding, and to fans across North America. You will forever be part of the Ponoka Stampede history.
As you hang up the rigging and spurs, we wish you nothing but the very best in this next chapter. Enjoy every moment with your beautiful family—you’ve earned it.
From all of us at the Ponoka Stampede… congratulations on an outstanding career and leaving the sport better than you found it.
Ponoka rodeo fans were treated to seeing one of their own come through in the team roping event, when local horse trainer Derek Hadland and his heeling partner Jeremy Buhler were the only one of the four teams to make a clean run in the Showdown, with a 7.9 second run.
“I knew that was the best steer,” says Buhler.
“We ran him in the twelve-man (Finals) and we knew what he was going to do, so that made it easy,” adds Hadland.
The two started roping together just this spring.
“It’s always a dream to get hooked up with a champ, and it’s working out,” says Hadland.
“It was honestly an easy choice for me,” explains Buhler, a World Champion heeler.
“I’ve been watching Derek develop over the years. You can tell when someone’s got a style, and then you look at their horses, and go, ‘yea, he’s got it’. Just glad to be on his team now.”
While Buhler is enjoying staying closer to home and his young family this season, the score of $20,539 apiece may have the team rethinking their travel plans.
“It’s huge, winning a rodeo like this, so it’s something to think about,” says Buhler.
It was his third Ponoka heeling title.
“It never gets any less special. It’s just as important to me.”
When some barrel racing horses were running more cautiously in the mud, a big bay mare out of Texas proved she was no prima dona, even if her name is Stiletto.
Michelle Alley made her first trip to Canada as her jockey, and despite a muddy track on their inaugural trip, she came in second fastest overall with the horse.
They came back to win the Finals, the Showdown and the overall Ponoka title, not to mention the $20,799 payday.
“She almost tipped third (barrel) going in. I really had to hold her off, and that’s why we bowed off. But the good Lord was looking over us and it stayed up,” says Alley.
“I think every run I rocked a barrel!”
“Holy cow, this is really going to help out our season. I only entered Ponoka, Cody and Oakley over the fourth (of July run). I really limited my runs, so I wanted to capitalize on them, and obviously we did here.”
Saskatchewan’s Grady Young rode the Vold bull All Gold Rolex for a 90.25, to claim his first Ponoka title.
“Checked off the bucket list,” grins Young.
“All the rodeos I enter are on that bucket list to win. I’m trying to win every single one. I’m just here to ride bulls and have fun and let the rest take care of itself.”
“That’s the first time this bull has been ridden. I’ve kind of got a hankering for rank bulls. They’re more fun to ride and when you ride them, it’s more rewarding.”
Along with the trophy saddle, buckle and jacket, Young also wins $19,962.
A huge congratulations to Rob Willoughby of Camrose, Alberta, our 2026 Ponoka Stampede Cattle Raffle Winner!
Rob has chosen to take home 40 pasture-bred heifers—what an incredible prize!
Thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket and supported this year’s raffle. Because of your incredible support, the 2026 Cattle Raffle was the fastest-selling cattle raffle in Ponoka Stampede history!
Your support helps make the Ponoka Stampede possible, and we couldn’t do it without you.
Thank you for being part of the 90th Ponoka Stampede.
Congratulations to Scott & Adrienne James of Edmonton, our 2026 Ponoka Stampede Showdown Round Mega Cash Raffle Winners 💰
What a way to wrap up the 90th Ponoka Stampede!
Scott and Adrienne are taking home an incredible $81,300!
A huge thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket and supported this year’s Mega Cash Raffle. Your support helps make the Ponoka Stampede possible, and we couldn’t do it without you.
Congratulations again to our lucky winners! Enjoy every penny!
🏆 Congratulations to Derek Hadland & Jeremy Buhler, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Team Roping Champions!
Their clean 7.9-second Showdown run earned each cowboy $20,539.
🏆 Congratulations to Grady Young, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Bull Riding Champion!
Grady’s 90.25-point ride aboard All Gold Rolex earned him his first Ponoka title and $19,962.
🏆 Congratulations to Zeke Thurston, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede All-Around Cowboy!
Thanks to a championship week in saddle bronc riding and competing in team roping, Zeke claimed the coveted All-Around title while earning $20,978 in saddle bronc winnings.
🏆 Congratulations to Michelle Alley, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Barrel Racing Champion!
Michelle and Stiletto conquered the mud to win the Finals, Showdown and championship, taking home $20,799.
🏆 Congratulations to Quinten Taylor, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Saddle Bronc Champion!
Quinten matched up with CS Dandy Delight for 88.75 points to claim the title and $18,844.
🏆 Congratulations to Scott Guenthner, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Steer Wrestling Champion!
Scott capped off an incredible week with a 4.7-second Showdown run, earning $23,431.
🏆 Congratulations to Ty Taypotat, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Bareback Riding Champion!
Ty’s championship ride aboard CS Agent Lynx was worth 89.75 points in the Stampede Showdown, earning him $12,491.
🏆 Congratulations to Falyn Thomson, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Breakaway Roping Champion!
The rookie standout won the Showdown with a blazing 2.9-second run, finishing the week with $17,702 in earnings.
🏆 Congratulations to Shane Hanchey, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Tie-Down Roping Champion!
Shane stopped the clock in 8.6 seconds in the Stampede Showdown to capture the title and take home $19,390.
Congratulations to Scott Guenthner, your 2026 Steer Wrestling Champion of the 90th Ponoka Stampede!
The Provost, Alberta cowboy put together a dominant week in Ponoka, recording the fastest time of the week, winning the Finals, capturing the aggregate, and then sealing the deal with a lightning-fast 4.7-second run in the Stampede Showdown. Guenthner earned an incredible $23,431 in Ponoka winnings.
Congratulations to Ty Taypotat, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Bareback Riding Champion!
Ty and CS Agent Lynx put together an outstanding 89.75-point ride to win the Stampede Showdown in sudden-death fashion, earning the $7,500 Showdown Bonus and bringing his total Ponoka earnings to $12,491.
Congratulations to Quinten Taylor, your 2026 Saddle Bronc Champion of the 90th Ponoka Stampede!
Quinten matched up with CS Dandy Delight for a spectacular 88.75-point ride in the Stampede Showdown, earning the championship in front of an incredible Canada Day crowd.
In celebration of the 90th Ponoka Stampede, each event champion will take home a truly unforgettable prize package — a custom Champion Trophy Saddle, Ponoka Stampede Championship Jacket, and Championship Buckle.
CONGRATULATIONS, ROB WILLOUGHBY OF CAMROSE, ALBERTA! 🐂🏆
You are the 2026 Ponoka Stampede Cattle Raffle Winner!
Rob has the incredible choice of taking home $100,000 CASH 💰 or 40 pasture-bred heifers.
A big thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket and supported this year’s Cattle Raffle.
The 2026 Cattle Raffle became the fastest-selling Cattle Raffle in Ponoka Stampede history! Your enthusiasm helps keep this incredible tradition alive and supports the continued success of the Ponoka Stampede.
From all of us at the Ponoka Stampede Association, thank you for being part of our 90th Ponoka Stampede.
We’ll see you back in Ponoka June 28 – July 4, 2027!
Congratulations to Gunner Armstrong of Shell Brook, Saskatchewan, on being crowned the Junior Steer Riding Champion at the 90th Ponoka Stampede!
Gunner proudly takes home the legendary John Dodds Memorial Buckle, generously sponsored by the Dodds Family—a buckle that represents grit, determination, and the proud legacy of one of rodeo’s greats.
Congratulations to our 2026 Errol McMillan Volunteer of the Year, Hazel Snyder 💜
Around here, legends aren’t just made in the arena—they’re made by the folks who show up year after year, quietly doing the work that keeps the Ponoka Stampede rolling.
For more than 40 years, Hazel Snyder has been the heart and soul behind the Official Fan Guide sales. Through sunshine, rain, and everything in between, she’s been there with a smile, a strong work ethic, and an unwavering love for the Ponoka Stampede.
They say some things just can’t be replaced… and nobody does it quite like Hazel.
Hazel, thank you for more than four decades of service, loyalty, and western hospitality. Your commitment has helped shape generations of Stampede memories, and this honour couldn’t be more deserving.
Please help us tip our hats and congratulate Hazel Snyder, our 2026 Errol McMillan Volunteer of the Year.
Wright came to Ponoka for a matchup with a Prime Time Stock horse called Good Vibrations, and Wright was feeling all of that eight seconds, and 86 points, later.
The ride was enough to earn him a berth back on Canada Day in an event where it took 85.50 points to qualify. Now Wright is looking forward to potentially two more horses in Ponoka.
“I live to ride rank broncs against rank bronc riders. I’m super excited. Hopefully they bring the heat, because I’m gonna!”
Good luck to @officialrustywright today in the Ponoka Stampede Finals 🇨🇦
WRIGHT COMES TO PLAY IN THE CANADIAN BRONC BOYS’ BACKYARD 🇨🇦
Impressed by the horses, money and the look of the Ponoka Stampede on the Cowboy Channel, saddle bronc rider Rusty Wright decided to make the trip north, driving up from his home in Utah with his son.
“It’s been a rodeo I’ve always wanted to come to, but just wasn’t able to make it work. This year I was lucky enough to get things lined up right, and I got my day here so everything worked out perfect. It was meant to be. I’m super excited to be here,” says the five-time NFR qualifier, who is part of the legendary Wright family of bronc riders.
Wright came to Ponoka for a matchup with a Prime Time Stock horse called Good Vibrations, and Wright was feeling all of that eight seconds, and 86 points, later.
“I found some videos on Facebook and watched them, and I knew that horse would fit my style. He bucks a lot like the old Bar T horses do down in Utah – takes a pile of rein and hops real good, and gets a lot of air. I knew that he was going to fit me if I stayed back and did my job.”
“My brothers and family kind of give me the nickname Prime Time, so I have it on the swells of my saddle, it was just prime time today all the way around. The stars aligned… and it didn’t rain,” he chuckled.
The ride was enough to earn him a berth back on Canada Day in an event where it took 85.50 points to qualify.
Now Wright is looking forward to potentially two more horses in Ponoka.
“I live to ride rank broncs against rank bronc riders. I’m super excited. Hopefully they bring the heat, because I’m gonna!”
Story by @diannefinstadharder Photo by @shellie.scott
As we celebrate the final day of the 90th Ponoka Stampede, today is your last chance to pick up the Official 90th Ponoka Stampede Souvenir Fan Guide!
A huge thank you to every one of our incredible program sellers who have greeted fans with a smile and helped put this keepsake into thousands of hands throughout Stampede week. Your enthusiasm and dedication are truly appreciated!
This historic edition would not have been possible without the generous support of our amazing advertisers.
To our storytellers, photographers, historians, writers, volunteers, contributors, and everyone who helped preserve the legacy of the Ponoka Stampede through these pages—thank you for helping tell the story of our 90th year.
Don’t leave without your copy! Pick up your Official 90th Ponoka Stampede Souvenir Fan Guide today and take a piece of Stampede history home with you. ❤️🤠
🇨🇦 EXPERIENCE CANADA DAY AT THE 90TH PONOKA STAMPEDE! 🤠
Celebrate Canada Day with a full day of championship rodeo action, live entertainment, midway fun, and unforgettable Western tradition!
11:45 AM – Julia Vos LIVE at the Wildies Bar Stage in the Infield
12:30 PM – West Coast Amusements Midway Opens
1:00 PM – Ponoka Stampede Professional Pro Rodeo FINALS Watch the Top 12 cowboys and cowgirls in each event battle for a coveted Top 4 spot and a chance to compete in the evening Stampede Showdown. Enjoy infield entertainment featuring the Bullfighters, CrASH Cooper the Rodeo Clown, and more!
Immediately Following the Rodeo Finals – Calcutta in the Stagecoach Saloon
4:00 PM – Julia Vos LIVE at the Wildies Bar Stage in the Infield
6:30 PM – 90th Ponoka Stampede SHOWDOWN SHORT ROUND Experience the Top 4 athletes in every professional rodeo event as they compete for the coveted 2026 Ponoka Stampede Championship!
Also featuring: 🏇 All Pro Canadian Chuckwagons $10,000 Dash for Cash 🐄 Cattle Raffle FINAL DRAW for $100,000 CASH or 40 Bred Heifers 💰 Ponoka Stampede Mega Cash Raffle Drawing
While you’re here, be sure to experience everything Ponoka has to offer! Visit our local golf courses, the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame, incredible local restaurants, and downtown shopping.
🇨🇦 This Canada Day, come discover what WILD WEST really means at the Ponoka Stampede.
🎟️ Buy your tickets, make lifelong memories, and experience the Real Wild West.
Fresh from the Feed
See What’s Happening
Aug 30
Who wore it better?
📸 @covymoore
#ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo
Aug 30
Cowgirls. We are just different 💯
#ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #cowgirls
Aug 26
🏆 BACK-TO-BACK!
Ponoka Stampede’s own Covy Moore has been named the 2026 CPRA Photographer of the Year — making it TWO YEARS IN A ROW! 🎞️
2025 🏆 2026
From the explosive action inside the arena to the classic Covy moments behind the chutes, Covy captures more than rodeo — he tells its story.
We couldn’t be prouder to have the two-time reigning CPRA Photographer of the Year behind the lens at the Ponoka Stampede.
Congratulations, Covy!
We love you!
#PonokaStampede #CPRARodeo #CovyMoore #Champ
Aug 26
VOLD IS GOLD 🏆
CONGRATULATIONS, WAYNE VOLD & VOLD RODEO.
The Ponoka Stampede is incredibly proud to congratulate Wayne Vold and Vold Rodeo Ltd. on being named the 2026 Stock Contractor of the Year!
For the Vold family, rodeo and the Ponoka Stampede share a history that stretches back generations.
Wayne is a second-generation stock contractor who followed in the footsteps of his father, legendary stock contractor Harry Vold. The Vold family’s connection to Ponoka goes all the way back to the early days of the Stampede, when Harry brought horses to Ponoka before becoming its primary stock contractor.
Wayne eventually took over the Canadian operation and built Vold Rodeo Ltd., continuing a family tradition that has helped shape the quality of rodeo in Ponoka for decades.
And for Wayne, this award belongs to far more than one person.
“I really appreciate this,” Wayne said. “It all comes together with all the hard work and organization Team Vold puts in… everyone on the team. It takes a lot of effort. And we never quit trying to improve our stock. We’re always looking for new horses and bulls. Vold Rodeo is alive and well because of our great team.”
That commitment to continually raising the bar is something we know well in Ponoka. Year after year, Wayne and Team Vold have played an important role in bringing outstanding bucking stock and world-class rodeo action to the Ponoka Stampede.
Wayne has previously said of Ponoka, “I’m very proud of this rodeo… We’ve been a part of it for a long time. It’s a good one.”
The feeling is certainly mutual.
From the generations of the Vold family who have travelled through our parade to the incredible livestock that continues to enter our arena, the Vold name is woven into the history of the Ponoka Stampede.
Congratulations to Wayne, Nansen Vold and the entire Vold Rodeo Ltd. team on this well-deserved recognition as the 2026 Stock Contractor of the Year.
We are proud to have you as part of the Ponoka Stampede family and even prouder to celebrate this incredible achievement with you.
Aug 23
8 second ride. Lifetime of faith.
The Cowboy ✝️
#ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #alberta #rodeo
Aug 19
These two ❤️
They can mash the potatoes. They can do the twist 🇨🇦
Full of that wonderful Ponoka personality!
Jul 30
The grandest of them all ❤️
The Ponoka Stampede Grand Entry is one of the most legendary openers in the sport of rodeo.
Our hats off to the 2026 Grand Entry Team.
#cowgirl #ponokastampede
Captured by @carlieborrisphotography
Jul 29
Every great tradition starts with a first Stampede 🧸
Watching our youngest fans experience the magic of the Ponoka Stampede reminds us why this tradition has stood strong for generations.
Cuteness captured by @carlieborrisphotography
#ponokastampede #kids #stampede
Jul 16
Toughest sport on dirt 🤯
Champion bull riders prepare behind the chutes at the 90th @ponokastampede
#ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #alberta
Jul 13
Body by Ben 🤠
Subscribe for workouts at @officialbenandersen
#ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #rodeo #wotd
Jul 10
Pipers Ponies by @covymoore 🍯
Jul 8
Forever a CHAMPION 🏆
Congratulations to 2x Ponoka Stampede Bareback Champion Richmond Champion on an incredible career.
Thank you for everything you’ve given to the sport of rodeo, to bareback riding, and to fans across North America. You will forever be part of the Ponoka Stampede history.
As you hang up the rigging and spurs, we wish you nothing but the very best in this next chapter. Enjoy every moment with your beautiful family—you’ve earned it.
From all of us at the Ponoka Stampede… congratulations on an outstanding career and leaving the sport better than you found it.
#richmondchampion
Jul 3
40 THOUSAND DOLLARS 💰
Ponoka rodeo fans were treated to seeing one of their own come through in the team roping event, when local horse trainer Derek Hadland and his heeling partner Jeremy Buhler were the only one of the four teams to make a clean run in the Showdown, with a 7.9 second run.
“I knew that was the best steer,” says Buhler.
“We ran him in the twelve-man (Finals) and we knew what he was going to do, so that made it easy,” adds Hadland.
The two started roping together just this spring.
“It’s always a dream to get hooked up with a champ, and it’s working out,” says Hadland.
“It was honestly an easy choice for me,” explains Buhler, a World Champion heeler.
“I’ve been watching Derek develop over the years. You can tell when someone’s got a style, and then you look at their horses, and go, ‘yea, he’s got it’. Just glad to be on his team now.”
While Buhler is enjoying staying closer to home and his young family this season, the score of $20,539 apiece may have the team rethinking their travel plans.
“It’s huge, winning a rodeo like this, so it’s something to think about,” says Buhler.
It was his third Ponoka heeling title.
“It never gets any less special. It’s just as important to me.”
Story by @diannefinstadharder
🎥 @8secondtakes
Jul 3
STILETTOS IN THE MUD 💰
When some barrel racing horses were running more cautiously in the mud, a big bay mare out of Texas proved she was no prima dona, even if her name is Stiletto.
Michelle Alley made her first trip to Canada as her jockey, and despite a muddy track on their inaugural trip, she came in second fastest overall with the horse.
They came back to win the Finals, the Showdown and the overall Ponoka title, not to mention the $20,799 payday.
“She almost tipped third (barrel) going in. I really had to hold her off, and that’s why we bowed off. But the good Lord was looking over us and it stayed up,” says Alley.
“I think every run I rocked a barrel!”
“Holy cow, this is really going to help out our season. I only entered Ponoka, Cody and Oakley over the fourth (of July run). I really limited my runs, so I wanted to capitalize on them, and obviously we did here.”
Story by @diannefinstadharder
🎥 @8secondtakes
Jul 3
$19,962 and ALL GOLD ROLEX ⌚️
Saskatchewan’s Grady Young rode the Vold bull All Gold Rolex for a 90.25, to claim his first Ponoka title.
“Checked off the bucket list,” grins Young.
“All the rodeos I enter are on that bucket list to win. I’m trying to win every single one. I’m just here to ride bulls and have fun and let the rest take care of itself.”
“That’s the first time this bull has been ridden. I’ve kind of got a hankering for rank bulls. They’re more fun to ride and when you ride them, it’s more rewarding.”
Along with the trophy saddle, buckle and jacket, Young also wins $19,962.
Story by @diannefinstadharder
🎥 @8secondtakes
Jul 3
INSTANT RANCHERS 🤠
A huge congratulations to Rob Willoughby of Camrose, Alberta, our 2026 Ponoka Stampede Cattle Raffle Winner!
Rob has chosen to take home 40 pasture-bred heifers—what an incredible prize!
Thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket and supported this year’s raffle. Because of your incredible support, the 2026 Cattle Raffle was the fastest-selling cattle raffle in Ponoka Stampede history!
Your support helps make the Ponoka Stampede possible, and we couldn’t do it without you.
Thank you for being part of the 90th Ponoka Stampede.
We’ll see you next year, June 28 – July 4, 2027!
Jul 2
Congratulations to Scott & Adrienne James of Edmonton, our 2026 Ponoka Stampede Showdown Round Mega Cash Raffle Winners 💰
What a way to wrap up the 90th Ponoka Stampede!
Scott and Adrienne are taking home an incredible $81,300!
A huge thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket and supported this year’s Mega Cash Raffle. Your support helps make the Ponoka Stampede possible, and we couldn’t do it without you.
Congratulations again to our lucky winners! Enjoy every penny!
Jul 2
🏆 Congratulations to Derek Hadland & Jeremy Buhler, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Team Roping Champions!
Their clean 7.9-second Showdown run earned each cowboy $20,539.
🏆 Congratulations to Grady Young, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Bull Riding Champion!
Grady’s 90.25-point ride aboard All Gold Rolex earned him his first Ponoka title and $19,962.
🏆 Congratulations to Zeke Thurston, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede All-Around Cowboy!
Thanks to a championship week in saddle bronc riding and competing in team roping, Zeke claimed the coveted All-Around title while earning $20,978 in saddle bronc winnings.
🏆 Congratulations to Michelle Alley, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Barrel Racing Champion!
Michelle and Stiletto conquered the mud to win the Finals, Showdown and championship, taking home $20,799.
🏆 Congratulations to Quinten Taylor, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Saddle Bronc Champion!
Quinten matched up with CS Dandy Delight for 88.75 points to claim the title and $18,844.
🏆 Congratulations to Scott Guenthner, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Steer Wrestling Champion!
Scott capped off an incredible week with a 4.7-second Showdown run, earning $23,431.
🏆 Congratulations to Ty Taypotat, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Bareback Riding Champion!
Ty’s championship ride aboard CS Agent Lynx was worth 89.75 points in the Stampede Showdown, earning him $12,491.
🏆 Congratulations to Falyn Thomson, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Breakaway Roping Champion!
The rookie standout won the Showdown with a blazing 2.9-second run, finishing the week with $17,702 in earnings.
🏆 Congratulations to Shane Hanchey, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Tie-Down Roping Champion!
Shane stopped the clock in 8.6 seconds in the Stampede Showdown to capture the title and take home $19,390.
Jul 2
Smokin’ Scottie 🔥
Congratulations to Scott Guenthner, your 2026 Steer Wrestling Champion of the 90th Ponoka Stampede!
The Provost, Alberta cowboy put together a dominant week in Ponoka, recording the fastest time of the week, winning the Finals, capturing the aggregate, and then sealing the deal with a lightning-fast 4.7-second run in the Stampede Showdown. Guenthner earned an incredible $23,431 in Ponoka winnings.
🎥 @8secondtakes
#PonokaStampede #SteerWrestling #Champion #ProRodeo
Jul 2
GEAUX TIGERS 🐅
Congratulations to Shane Hanchey, your 2026 Tie-Down Roping Champion of the 90th Ponoka Stampede!
The Louisiana cowboy stopped the clock in 8.6 seconds to win the Stampede Showdown and add another Ponoka title to his incredible resume.
A Ponoka champion in 2016 and 2022, and the average winner in 2012, Hanchey continues his winning tradition in one of rodeo’s most prestigious arenas.
With the victory, Shane takes home $19,390 in Ponoka earnings.
#PonokaStampede #TieDownRoping #Champion #ProRodeo
🎥 @8secondtakes
Jul 2
🏆 CHAMPION BAREBACK RIDE 🏆
Congratulations to Ty Taypotat, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Bareback Riding Champion!
Ty and CS Agent Lynx put together an outstanding 89.75-point ride to win the Stampede Showdown in sudden-death fashion, earning the $7,500 Showdown Bonus and bringing his total Ponoka earnings to $12,491.
#PonokaStampede #BarebackRiding #champion #ProRodeo
🎥 @8secondtakes
Jul 2
🏆 BREAKAWAY CHAMPION! 🏆
Congratulations to Falyn Thomson, your 2026 Ponoka Stampede Ladies Breakaway Roping Champion!
Falyn delivered a lightning-fast 2.9-second run in the Stampede Showdown to capture the championship.
Congratulations, Falyn! 💥
#PonokaStampede #BreakawayRoping #StampedeShowdown #Champion YearOfTheCowgirl
🎥 @8secondtakes
Jul 2
🏆 SADDLE BRONC CHAMPION! 🏆
Congratulations to Quinten Taylor, your 2026 Saddle Bronc Champion of the 90th Ponoka Stampede!
Quinten matched up with CS Dandy Delight for a spectacular 88.75-point ride in the Stampede Showdown, earning the championship in front of an incredible Canada Day crowd.
#PonokaStampede #SaddleBronc #StampedeShowdown
🎥 @8secondtakes
Jul 2
In celebration of the 90th Ponoka Stampede, each event champion will take home a truly unforgettable prize package — a custom Champion Trophy Saddle, Ponoka Stampede Championship Jacket, and Championship Buckle.
Congratulations to all of our Champions 🏆
Jul 2
🏆 Congratulations to Shane Hanchey and the outstanding horse Peso, your 2026 Tie-Down Roping Champions of the 90th Ponoka Stampede!
#PonokaStampede #PS90 #TieDownRoping #Champion
📸 @billiejphoto
Jul 2
CONGRATULATIONS, ROB WILLOUGHBY OF CAMROSE, ALBERTA! 🐂🏆
You are the 2026 Ponoka Stampede Cattle Raffle Winner!
Rob has the incredible choice of taking home $100,000 CASH 💰 or 40 pasture-bred heifers.
A big thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket and supported this year’s Cattle Raffle.
The 2026 Cattle Raffle became the fastest-selling Cattle Raffle in Ponoka Stampede history! Your enthusiasm helps keep this incredible tradition alive and supports the continued success of the Ponoka Stampede.
From all of us at the Ponoka Stampede Association, thank you for being part of our 90th Ponoka Stampede.
We’ll see you back in Ponoka June 28 – July 4, 2027!
Jul 2
SHOWDOWN BOUND!
Advancing to the Stampede Showdown in the Bull Riding at the 90th Ponoka Stampede….
Grady Young
Glen Erickson
Jacob Gardner
Lonnie West
Best of luck to all of our Showdown qualifiers 💥
📸 @covymoore @billiejphoto
Jul 2
SHOWDOWN BOUND!
Advancing to the Showdown Round in the Team Roping at the 90th Ponoka Stampede….
Derek Hadland & Jeremy Buhler
Brady Minor & Riley Minor
Dustin Bird & Tyrel Flewelling
Colt Kornfeld & Kade Christianson
Best of luck to all of our Showdown qualifiers 💥
📸 @covymoore @billiejphoto
Jul 2
SHOWDOWN BOUND!
Advancing to the Stampede Showdown in the Steer Wrestling at the 90th Ponoka Stampede….
Scott Guenthner
Tyke Kipp
Jace Melvin
Tristan Martin
Best of luck to all of our Showdown qualifiers 💥
📸 @covymoore
Jul 2
SHOWDOWN BOUND!
Advancing to the Stampede Showdown in the Barrel Racing at the 90th Ponoka Stampede….
Michelle Alley
Lisa Zachoda
Taylor Manning
Suzanne Depaoli
@alley7473
@lisazachoda
@manning_taylor
@suzannerandledepaoli
Best of luck to all of our Showdown qualifiers 💥
📸 @covymoore @billiejphoto
Jul 2
SHOWDOWN BOUND!
Advancing to the Stampede Showdown in the Breakaway Roping at the 90th Ponoka Stampede….
Falyn Thomson
Jennifer Schuk
Jenna Dallyn
Kylie Whiteside
Best of luck to all of our Showdown qualifiers 💥
📸 @covymoore @billiejphoto
Jul 2
SHOWDOWN BOUND!
Advancing to the Stampede Showdown in the Saddle Bronc at the 90th Ponoka Stampede….
@officialzekethurston
@quinten.taylor
@tannerbutner
@officialrustywright
Best of luck to all of our Showdown qualifiers 💥
📸 @covymoore @billiejphoto
Jul 2
SHOWDOWN BOUND!
Advancing to the Stampede Showdown in the Bareback at the 90th Ponoka Stampede….
@orinlarsen
@ethan_mazurenko
@clintalaye
@tytaypotat
Best of luck to all of our Showdown qualifiers 💥
📸 CovyMoore.com
Jul 2
SHOWDOWN BOUND!
Advancing to the Stampede Showdown in the Tie Down Roping at the 90th Ponoka Stampede….
@shanehanchey
@__beaucooper
@riley_webb12
@tyharris21
Best of luck to all of our Showdown qualifiers 💥
📸 @covymoore
Jul 1
Congratulations to Gunner Armstrong of Shell Brook, Saskatchewan, on being crowned the Junior Steer Riding Champion at the 90th Ponoka Stampede!
Gunner proudly takes home the legendary John Dodds Memorial Buckle, generously sponsored by the Dodds Family—a buckle that represents grit, determination, and the proud legacy of one of rodeo’s greats.
#PonokaStampede
Jul 1
Congratulations to our 2026 Errol McMillan Volunteer of the Year, Hazel Snyder 💜
Around here, legends aren’t just made in the arena—they’re made by the folks who show up year after year, quietly doing the work that keeps the Ponoka Stampede rolling.
For more than 40 years, Hazel Snyder has been the heart and soul behind the Official Fan Guide sales. Through sunshine, rain, and everything in between, she’s been there with a smile, a strong work ethic, and an unwavering love for the Ponoka Stampede.
They say some things just can’t be replaced… and nobody does it quite like Hazel.
Hazel, thank you for more than four decades of service, loyalty, and western hospitality. Your commitment has helped shape generations of Stampede memories, and this honour couldn’t be more deserving.
Please help us tip our hats and congratulate Hazel Snyder, our 2026 Errol McMillan Volunteer of the Year.
📸 @billiejphoto
Jul 1
Welcome to Canada Rookie & Rusty 🇨🇦
Wright came to Ponoka for a matchup with a Prime Time Stock horse called Good Vibrations, and Wright was feeling all of that eight seconds, and 86 points, later.
The ride was enough to earn him a berth back on Canada Day in an event where it took 85.50 points to qualify. Now Wright is looking forward to potentially two more horses in Ponoka.
“I live to ride rank broncs against rank bronc riders. I’m super excited. Hopefully they bring the heat, because I’m gonna!”
Good luck to @officialrustywright today in the Ponoka Stampede Finals 🇨🇦
🎥 @aswedgan
#ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #saddlebronc
Jul 1
WRIGHT COMES TO PLAY IN THE CANADIAN BRONC BOYS’ BACKYARD 🇨🇦
Impressed by the horses, money and the look of the Ponoka Stampede on the Cowboy Channel, saddle bronc rider Rusty Wright decided to make the trip north, driving up from his home in Utah with his son.
“It’s been a rodeo I’ve always wanted to come to, but just wasn’t able to make it work. This year I was lucky enough to get things lined up right, and I got my day here so everything worked out perfect. It was meant to be. I’m super excited to be here,” says the five-time NFR qualifier, who is part of the legendary Wright family of bronc riders.
Wright came to Ponoka for a matchup with a Prime Time Stock horse called Good Vibrations, and Wright was feeling all of that eight seconds, and 86 points, later.
“I found some videos on Facebook and watched them, and I knew that horse would fit my style. He bucks a lot like the old Bar T horses do down in Utah – takes a pile of rein and hops real good, and gets a lot of air. I knew that he was going to fit me if I stayed back and did my job.”
“My brothers and family kind of give me the nickname Prime Time, so I have it on the swells of my saddle, it was just prime time today all the way around. The stars aligned… and it didn’t rain,” he chuckled.
The ride was enough to earn him a berth back on Canada Day in an event where it took 85.50 points to qualify.
Now Wright is looking forward to potentially two more horses in Ponoka.
“I live to ride rank broncs against rank bronc riders. I’m super excited. Hopefully they bring the heat, because I’m gonna!”
Story by @diannefinstadharder
Photo by @shellie.scott
#prorodeo #rodeo #saddlebronc #ponokastampede
Jul 1
A TIP OF THE HAT TO OUR PROGRAM SELLERS! 🤠📖
As we celebrate the final day of the 90th Ponoka Stampede, today is your last chance to pick up the Official 90th Ponoka Stampede Souvenir Fan Guide!
A huge thank you to every one of our incredible program sellers who have greeted fans with a smile and helped put this keepsake into thousands of hands throughout Stampede week. Your enthusiasm and dedication are truly appreciated!
This historic edition would not have been possible without the generous support of our amazing advertisers.
To our storytellers, photographers, historians, writers, volunteers, contributors, and everyone who helped preserve the legacy of the Ponoka Stampede through these pages—thank you for helping tell the story of our 90th year.
Don’t leave without your copy! Pick up your Official 90th Ponoka Stampede Souvenir Fan Guide today and take a piece of Stampede history home with you. ❤️🤠
Your Official Fan Guide Team,
Amber & Meagan
Jul 1
🇨🇦 EXPERIENCE CANADA DAY AT THE 90TH PONOKA STAMPEDE! 🤠
Celebrate Canada Day with a full day of championship rodeo action, live entertainment, midway fun, and unforgettable Western tradition!
11:45 AM – Julia Vos LIVE at the Wildies Bar Stage in the Infield
12:30 PM – West Coast Amusements Midway Opens
1:00 PM – Ponoka Stampede Professional Pro Rodeo FINALS
Watch the Top 12 cowboys and cowgirls in each event battle for a coveted Top 4 spot and a chance to compete in the evening Stampede Showdown. Enjoy infield entertainment featuring the Bullfighters, CrASH Cooper the Rodeo Clown, and more!
Immediately Following the Rodeo Finals – Calcutta in the Stagecoach Saloon
4:00 PM – Julia Vos LIVE at the Wildies Bar Stage in the Infield
6:30 PM – 90th Ponoka Stampede SHOWDOWN SHORT ROUND
Experience the Top 4 athletes in every professional rodeo event as they compete for the coveted 2026 Ponoka Stampede Championship!
Also featuring:
🏇 All Pro Canadian Chuckwagons $10,000 Dash for Cash
🐄 Cattle Raffle FINAL DRAW for $100,000 CASH or 40 Bred Heifers
💰 Ponoka Stampede Mega Cash Raffle Drawing
While you’re here, be sure to experience everything Ponoka has to offer! Visit our local golf courses, the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame, incredible local restaurants, and downtown shopping.
🇨🇦 This Canada Day, come discover what WILD WEST really means at the Ponoka Stampede.
🎟️ Buy your tickets, make lifelong memories, and experience the Real Wild West.
For more information, visit PonokaStampede.com
#CanadaDay #PonokaStampede #Stampede #ProRodeo #Alberta WildWest
🎥 @bycoleharris