Entertainment
Get ready for a week packed with excitement, talent, and tradition at the Ponoka Stampede. From concerts and fireworks to rodeo action and family shows, every day offers something unforgettable.
Crash
Cooper
“You could call me the backup bullfighter….,” chuckles CrAsh Cooper, “…that’s WAYYY back!”
The Ponoka Stampede once again welcomes rodeo’s premier funny man, as CrAsh Cooper and his barrel join the bullfighters in the arena. He’s there for comic relief and to help entertain the crowd during any delays during bull riding. But don’t be fooled – he can jump into action if needed.
“Scott Byrne got run over one time and I had to fill him for him, to finish a performance at Ponoka,” recalls Cooper. “I did the same thing in Cheyenne once.”
Even last year at Ponoka, Cooper showed some fancy footwork, when a cow during the junior riding event came straight for him on the run.
“She caught me right out there in the middle of the arena, and I threw a fake and sidestepped her and the crowd loved it,” he laughs.
Not everyone may have realized Cooper did get his rodeo start as a bullfighter, spending ten years in the craft, including freestyle bullfighting competitions at the CFR, and even fighting bulls as far away as the New Zealand National Finals rodeo.
CrAsh Cooper much prefers his clown role these days, which he likens to being a stand-up comic. He has been recognized ten times as Canada’s top comedy or contract act in professional rodeo, and is the only Canadian rodeo clown to have been selected to perform at the NFR.
Cooper makes the annual trek from the family ranch at Senlac, SK to delight the fans and pester the pickup men during Ponoka’s festivities. He also delights in a never-ending battle of words and wits with rodeo announcer Dr. Lynn Phillips.
“Clowning is way harder than bullfighting,” insists Cooper, who prides himself on being original, timely and bringing something fresh to the crowd every performance. “It’s hard to be a good clown,” he clarifies.
“Being a bullfighter helps as well, because you’re a bit more of an asset.”
Ponoka is one of the few places rodeo fans get to see Cooper’s comedic talents now, as clowning takes a back seat to his many other pursuits. Chief among them is being Dad and hockey coach for his son Jinks (14) and daughter Jesse (13). He’s also busy with the cattle herd, plus raising bucking horses under the “Cooper Clan Bucking Horse Company”. Cooper Clan horses have been to the NFR, and have consistently been successful at the NFR Bucking Futurity in Las Vegas.
CrAsh Cooper’s creativity is not limited to his work in the entertainment industry. He is also an accomplished western artist, and his cartoons are regular favorites in the Canadian Cowboy Country magazine. You’ll find his artwork on Leanin’ Tree greeting cards as well.
Lately, CrAsh has found a new outlet, doing art presentations at schools, spinning a cartoon exercise with students into a confidence builder for them. He also does some special crowd engagement work during the Ponoka PBR event. Throw in some keynote speaking presentations, and there seems to be no end to Cooper’s talent range.
“They all still make people laugh,” says Cooper, “which is what I like to do.”
To contact CrAsh, email ash@crashcooper.com
COW DOG
FUTURITY
July 1st 2026 – 6:30am at Calnash Ag Event Centre
The mission of the the Canadian Cow Dog Futurity (CCDF) is to showcase and promote registered stock dog bloodlines.
The CCDF provides a platform for the recognition of breeders and owners by encouraging the proper development and training of stock dogs, culminating in an annual sponsored futurity and aged events.
The Goals of the CCDF are:
- To provide an avenue for stock dog breeders to gain recognition for their genetic achievements.
- To encourage and recognize proper and timely training of young stock dogs by breeders/owners and trainers.
- To promote ongoing training and competition of aged (finished) stock dogs.
- To showcase and bring awareness to the public, the usefulness and benefits of well bred, properly trained stock dogs
Flying Cross
Jockeys
The Flying Cross Jockey Club is part of the Flying Cross Ranch in Lacombe, Alberta.
Both the ranch and the club are owned and operated by Roy and Christina Sturgeon. Roy is a lifelong horseman and former jockey who saw value in establishing a program for kids and young adults who love horses and horse racing.
Fireworks
After Dark
Experience a celebration in the sky at the Ponoka Stampede with fireworks after dark!
Canada's Greatest
Horseman
Canada’s Greatest Horseman & Summer Spectacular Horse Show
Looking for something to do between the rodeo and chuckwagons at the Ponoka Stampede? Come cool off in the Calnash Ag Event Centre and catch the most exciting reined cow horse action in the country!
Piper
Yule
Piper Yule, known as the young gun of the rodeo industry!
This spitfire is 14 years old and is known for her signature cow horses and her cowgirl heart and true horsemanship. Known to be as kind as she is tough and comes from the hard grass country in Southern Alberta and is a 5th generation cowgirl; When not roman riding, liberty horsemanship and trick riding; Piper spends her time team roping and competing in cutting and working cowhorse and helping on her family ranch and community.
Fresh from the Feed
See What’s Happening
Dec 19
Wrap up some RODEO this Christmas 🎁
Ponoka Stampede Pro Rodeo performance tickets make an unforgettable GIFT for anyone on your list. Treat your loved ones to an experience filled with WILD WEST excitement and world-class western entertainment!
🏆 Witness the Greatest
Join us for incredible professional rodeo performances showcasing the greatest PRO RODEO athletes in the world.
💰 Save Big When You Buy in Advance!
Don’t miss out on savings! By purchasing your performance and concert tickets online in advance you can SAVE MONEY and secure your seats!
✨ Afternoon Pro Rodeo Ticket Benefits
Your ticket doesn’t just grant access to the pro rodeo events; it opens the door to a fantastic lineup of western entertainment!
- Women’s Ranch Bronc Riding
-Award winning Piper Yule
- CrAsh Cooper the Rodeo Clown
- Our incredible professional bullfighters
- And MORE!
Affordable Fun for Everyone
A trip to the Ponoka Stampede is more affordable than you think! Take advantage of our numerous FREE offerings:
- FREE PARKING
- FREE CAMPING
- FREE SHUTTLES
- FREE Wild West Trade Show at the Arena Complex
- FREE Canadian Greatest Horseman Competition and so much more!
🎟️ Tickets on Sale Now!
Don’t wait! Buy NOW & SAVE at ponokastampede.com
Make this holiday season unforgettable with the gift of the Ponoka Stampede 🎄
See you at the 90th Ponoka Stampede June 25- July 1st, 2026!
#ponokastampede #giftidea #stampede ...
Dec 17
Friday, June 26th is KIDS DAY at the Ponoka Stampede 🎈
Kids aged 12 and under can enjoy the afternoon Pro Rodeo for FREE! Kids day is filled with fun for our little rodeo fans and the entire family! They’ll be entertained all day long with exciting western acts and thrilling rodeo competition. Just remember, tickets must be reserved in advance, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity for your kids to experience the magic of the Ponoka Stampede!
RESERVE YOUR KIDS DAY TICKETS NOW 🎟️
We’ve been notified that 3rd party websites are selling tickets for 2026 Ponoka Stampede. We only honor tickets purchased through our website PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE.
Do not purchase from third party sites. Now more than ever there is an increase in ticket scams especially on social media. Our tickets are sold through our website (www.ponokastampede.com) in Canadian dollars. Our Adult prices for grandstand seating range from $35- $70 plus fees and taxes depending on the event.
Thank you Ponoka FCSS being a great part of our Kids Day ❤️
#christmas #kids #family #free #ponokastampede ...
Dec 5
Are you the NEXT Miss Ponoka Stampede?
2026 Applications are NOW ONLINE!
https://ponokastampede.com/miss-ponoka/
Young ladies 18 to 24 years of age interested in becoming the next Miss Ponoka Stampede will be required to have assets that include: horsemanship, public speaking, some knowledge of rodeo, an outgoing personality, and the ability to attend events and make appearances. Applications from those who wish to take part in an experience of a lifetime will be accepted until 4 p.m. on April 1st 2026. Miss Ponoka Stampede selection day is April 8th at 9am.
#rodeoqueen #missponokastampede #ponokastampede ...
Dec 2
Frank’s final ride ❤️
Thank you to everyone who attended Franks celebration of life.
The rodeo community lost a legend as Ponoka Stampede Lifetime Member and Senator, Frank Mickey, passed away on November 22.
Frank began volunteering at the Ponoka Stampede in 1947 - and for the next 78 years he devoted immeasurable time and effort into building the Stampede into the world class event we know today.
Frank received ‘Man of the Year’ honors with the Ponoka Stampede Association and the CPRA in 1984 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in the builders category in 2005.
He has proudly overseen many changes and improvements to the Stampede Grounds and rodeo events over the years, including the amazing transformation from wood to steel of the grandstands, the chutes, the corrals, and buildings. Factors for ongoing successes have included the addition of the RV Park, Longscore Saloon, Tommy Dorchester Paddock, the Stagecoach Saloon, the rebuilding of the racetrack and the access tunnel, the Wild West Grandstand and Showdown Dance Hall.
Through all his dedication and efforts, Frank is quick to salute the support and enthusiasm of the volunteers, the community, the generations of PSA members and from the many thousands of rodeo contestants and fans.
His footprints mark every inch of the Ponoka Stampede grounds- and will always remain here.
Rest easy cowboy- your work is done. ...
Dec 2
STAMPEDE NIGHTS CONCERT FANS FAQ ⁉️
Every SEAT is a good seat at the Ponoka Stampede.
Our STAGE is located at the east end of the Arena by the timed events area.
Did you know all of our STAMPEDE NIGHTS concert include the Evening Performance of Chuckwagon Racing!
Concert fan ticket holders are also invited to experience the concerts from our arena floor.
BONUS! Your evening ticket grants you FREE access to the Showdown Dance Hall (18+) before 11 PM, so you can keep the party going all night long. Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of rodeo, music, and fun!
We’ve been notified that 3rd party websites are selling tickets for 2026 Ponoka Stampede. We only honor tickets purchased through our website PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE.
Do not purchase from third party sites. Now more than ever there is an increase in ticket scams especially on social media. Our tickets are sold through our website (www.ponokastampede.com) in Canadian dollars. Our Adult prices for grandstand seating range from $35- $70 plus fees and taxes depending on the event.
#ponokastampede ...
Dec 2
The RICHEST CASH OPTION EVER 💰💰💰💰
The 2026 World Famous Cattle Raffle Tickets are officially on sale!
Purchase online at PONOKASTAMPEDE.com
Or purchase at @jonesboyswestern Vold Jones Vold Auction Mart, Ponoka Vet Clinic, Ponoka Fertilizer, and Co-op Oils.
Good luck and thank you for supporting the Ponoka Stampede! ...
Dec 1
HUNTER BROTHERS LIVE at the 90th Ponoka Stampede 🎸
Tuesday, June 30th
TICKETS ON SALE NOW 🎫 only at PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE
6:30pm- CHUCKWAGONS & CONCERT
Get ready for an exhilarating night as the Hunter Brothers takes the MAIN STAGE, right after the adrenaline-pumping All Pro and WPCA Chuckwagon races! But that’s not all your ticket includes the fan favorite Kids Wild Pony Races and a whole lot more fun!
BONUS! Your evening ticket grants you FREE access to the Showdown Dance Hall (18+) before 11 PM, so you can keep the party going all night long. Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of rodeo, music, and fun!
We’ve been notified that 3rd party websites are selling tickets for 2026 Ponoka Stampede. We only honor tickets purchased through our website PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE.
Do not purchase from third party sites. Now more than ever there is an increase in ticket scams especially on social media. Our tickets are sold through our website (www.ponokastampede.com) in Canadian dollars. Our Adult prices for grandstand seating range from $35- $70 plus fees and taxes depending on the event.
#hunterbrothers #ponokastampede ...
Dec 1
SAWYER BROWN X STAMPEDE NIGHTS 🤠
TICKETS ON SALE NOW 🎫 only at PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE
6:30pm- CHUCKWAGONS & CONCERT
Get ready for an exhilarating night as Sawyer Brown takes the MAIN STAGE, right after the adrenaline-pumping All Pro and WPCA Chuckwagon races! But that’s not all your ticket includes the fan favorite Kids Wild Pony Races and a whole lot more fun!
BONUS! Your evening ticket grants you FREE access to the Showdown Dance Hall (18+) before 11 PM, so you can keep the party going all night long. Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of rodeo, music, and fun!
We’ve been notified that 3rd party websites are selling tickets for 2026 Ponoka Stampede. We only honor tickets purchased through our website PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE.
Do not purchase from third party sites. Now more than ever there is an increase in ticket scams especially on social media. Our tickets are sold through our website (www.ponokastampede.com) in Canadian dollars. Our Adult prices for grandstand seating range from $35- $70 plus fees and taxes depending on the event.
#sawyerbrown #ponokastampede ...
Dec 1
Experience the CHUCKWAGONS & COOPER ALAN Sunday, June 28th at the 90th Ponoka Stampede 🎸
TICKET ON SALE NOW 🎫 only at PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE
6:30pm- CHUCKWAGONS & CONCERT
Get ready for an exhilarating night as Cooper Alan takes the MAIN STAGE, right after the adrenaline-pumping All Pro and WPCA Chuckwagon races! But that’s not all your ticket includes the fan favorite Kids Wild Pony Races and a whole lot more fun!
BONUS! Your evening ticket grants you FREE access to the Showdown Dance Hall (18+) before 11 PM, so you can keep the party going all night long. Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of rodeo, music, and fun!
We’ve been notified that 3rd party websites are selling tickets for 2026 Ponoka Stampede. We only honor tickets purchased through our website PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE.
Do not purchase from third party sites. Now more than ever there is an increase in ticket scams especially on social media. Our tickets are sold through our website (www.ponokastampede.com) in Canadian dollars. Our Adult prices for grandstand seating range from $35- $70 plus fees and taxes depending on the event.
#cooperalan #ponokastampede ...
Dec 1
WILD WEST PBR PONOKA with Special Guest John Riggins Saturday June 27th 🐂
TICKETS ON SALE NOW 🎫 only at PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE
CHUCKWAGONS, PBR & CONCERT
Get ready for the most electric night at the Ponoka Stampede! Experience the excitement of Wild West PBR Ponoka, entertainment by John Riggins LIVE on the Main Stage, right after the exhilarating All Pro and WPCA Chuckwagon races. And that’s not all—enjoy the fan favorite Kids Wild Pony Racing and a host of other exciting activities that will keep the energy high! This is a night you won’t want to miss, filled with unforgettable moments and the spirit of the Wild West!
BONUS! Your evening ticket grants you FREE access to the Showdown Dance Hall (18+) before 11 PM, so you can keep the party going all night long. Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of rodeo, music, and fun!
We’ve been notified that 3rd party websites are selling tickets for 2026 Ponoka Stampede. We only honor tickets purchased through our website PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE.
Do not purchase from third party sites. Now more than ever there is an increase in ticket scams especially on social media. Our tickets are sold through our website (www.ponokastampede.com) in Canadian dollars. Our Adult prices for grandstand seating range from $35 - $70 plus fees and taxes depending on the event.
#ponokastampede #johnriggins ...
Dec 1
Ponoka Stampede proudly presents American country music singer and songwriter, WAYLON WYATT Friday, June 26th 🎸
TICKETS ON SALE NOW 🎫 only at PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE
6:30pm-CHUCKWAGONS & WAYLON WYATT CONCERT
Get ready for an exhilarating night as Waylon Wyatt takes the MAIN STAGE, right after the adrenaline-pumping All Pro and WPCA Chuckwagon races! But that’s not all your ticket includes the fan favorite Kids Wild Pony Races and a whole lot more fun!
BONUS! Your evening ticket grants you FREE access to the Showdown Dance Hall (18+) before 11 PM, so you can keep the party going all night long. Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of rodeo, music, and fun!
We’ve been notified that 3rd party websites are selling tickets for 2026 Ponoka Stampede. We only honor tickets purchased through our website PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE.
Do not purchase from third party sites. Now more than ever there is an increase in ticket scams especially on social media. Our tickets are sold through our website (www.ponokastampede.com) in Canadian dollars. Our Adult prices for grandstand seating range from $35 - $70 plus fees and taxes depending on the event.
See you at the 90th Ponoka Stampede
#waylonwyatt #ponokastampede ...
Dec 1
DWIGHT YOAKAM to open the 90th Ponoka “STAMPEDE NIGHTS” series 🎸
TICKETS ON SALE NOW 🎫
Thursday, June 25th- EVENING PRO RODEO & COUNTRY MUSIC LEGEND, DWIGHT YOAKAM
6:30pm- Get ready for an unforgettable night at the 90th Ponoka Stampede! The excitement starts with thrilling Professional Rodeo action showcasing the best cowboys and cowgirls in the business. Afterward, join us for an electrifying honky-tonking concert on the Main Stage featuring the legend, Dwight Yoakam, where the energy will be off the billboard charts! As the sun sets in the Wild West, prepare to be dazzled by a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night sky.
But that’s not all! BONUS! Your evening ticket grants you FREE access to the Showdown Dance Hall (18+) before 11 PM, so you can keep the party going all night long. Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of rodeo, music, and fun!
We’ve been notified that 3rd party websites are selling tickets for 2026 Ponoka Stampede. We only honor tickets purchased through our website PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE.
Do not purchase from third party sites. Now more than ever there is an increase in ticket scams especially on social media. Our tickets are sold through our website (www.ponokastampede.com) in Canadian dollars. Our Adult prices for grandstand seating range from $35 - $70 plus fees and taxes depending on the event.
#ponokastampede #dwightyoakam ...
Nov 25
The WAIT is ALMOST OVER 🎟️🎫
Dear Ponoka Stampede Fans,
This Monday, December 1st at 9:00am all 2026 Ponoka Stampede Performance tickets will be on sale.
Remember the best way to save money on tickets is to purchase online in advance. All headline concerts are included in your evening performance ticket.
Enjoy the entire 90th Ponoka Stampede (13 performances in the same reserved seats) with our ALL PERFORMANCE TICKET PACKAGES for a discounted price. Perks include discounted ticket pricing, preferred camping and dibs on your seats in 2027!
We’ve been notified that 3rd party websites are selling tickets for 2026 Ponoka Stampede. We only honor tickets purchased through our website PONOKASTAMPEDE.com powered by AuthentiGATE.
Do not purchase from third party sites. Now more than ever there is an increase in ticket scams especially on social media. Our tickets are sold through our website (www.ponokastampede.com) in Canadian dollars. Our Adult prices for grandstand seating range from $35 - $70 plus fees and taxes depending on the event.
Please visit our website for complete schedule. We look forward to welcoming you to the 90th Ponoka Stampede this June 25- July 1st, 2026
Always Canada Day Long Weekend, Always the Ponoka Stampede!
#stampede #ponokastampede ...
Nov 23
The rodeo community lost a legend this weekend as Ponoka Stampede Lifetime Member and Senator, Frank Mickey, passed away on November 22.
Frank began volunteering at the Ponoka Stampede in 1947 - and for the next 78 years he devoted immeasurable time and effort into building the Stampede into the world class event we know today.
Frank Mickey was born in 1927 and has spent most of his active life in the community of Ponoka, where he and his wife Margaret raised their two daughters, Janie and Wendy and have been blessed with four grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.
Frank, who worked with the Town of Ponoka Public Works Department from 1956-1988, 17 years as a foreman, joined the Ponoka Stampede Association in 1959. His many decades of dedication have included serving as president from 1966 to 1971 and from 1984-1985 as well as a Director, Grounds Chairman and Grounds Manager. Frank who is a lifetime member of the Ponoka Stampede Association and the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association has also served as the President of the Stampede managers for 12 years, was on the CPRA board of directors for 20 years, the Dodge Rodeo rep from 1994-2000, the Central Alberta Rodeo Circuit president for eight years and he was on the CRPA board from 1999-2003.
He received ‘Man of the Year’ honors with the Ponoka Stampede Association and the CPRA in 1984 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in the builders category in 2005. In his younger years Frank was an avid hockey fan and would faithfully serve from 1952-1960 as the trainer for the Ponoka Stampeders Senior Hockey Club. He has proudly overseen many changes and improvements to the Stampede Grounds and rodeo events over the years, including the amazing transformation from wood to steel of the grandstands, the chutes, the corrals, and buildings. Factors for ongoing successes have included the addition of the RV Park, Longscore Saloon, Tommy Dorchester Paddock, the Stagecoach Saloon, the rebuilding of the racetrack and the access tunnel, the Wild West Grandstand and Showdown Dance Hall.
More on our Facebook page. ...
Nov 11
Lest We Forget ❤️ ...
Nov 3
On behalf of President Rick Wierzba and the entire Board of Directors, we want to extend our deepest love and support to the Pugh family during this difficult time. Bobby was not just a member of our community; he was a shining beacon of joy and dedication, whose presence enriched our lives and the Ponoka Stampede.
From the moment Bobby stepped behind the chutes, it was clear that he was more than just a volunteer. His unwavering commitment to judging amateur competitions and his tireless efforts ensured that each participant felt valued and celebrated. Bobby had a unique ability to bring smiles to our faces, lighting up lives with his infectious spirit and genuine kindness.
To the Pugh family, please know that you are surrounded by love and support from all of us. Let us honor his memory by keeping his spirit alive in everything we do.
Rest easy Cowboy ❤️
📸 @aswedgan ...
Nov 3
We’re thrilled to announce that our history vault is now open, and we’ve released a limited number of original Ponoka Stampede posters! Grab your very own piece of history for just **$50 each**. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just starting your collection, these limited edition posters are a must-have. Don’t miss out—secure yours today and celebrate the legacy of the Ponoka Stampede!
Shop now! Link in bio ⬆️
Free pick-up from the Ponoka Stampede Office is available- email the office at Stampede@ponokastampede.com Posters are 18x24.
Available posters: Rod Hay, Dallas Dorchester, John Dodds, Jake Vold, Harry Vold, Levi Simpson & Jeremy Buhler.
#stampede #poster #limitededition #prorodeo #rodeo #collectorsedition ...
Oct 7
That’s our GIRL 😍
@missponokastampede x @covymoore x @canadianfinalsrodeo_official ...
Oct 2
Congratulations to Covy Moore, our Official Photographer for the Ponoka Stampede, on being named the inaugural recipient of the Canadian Professional Pro Rodeo Association’s “Photographer of the Year” award!
For the past nine years, Covy has captured the Stampede with a unique perspective that has significantly boosted our marketing and advertising efforts.
His exceptional photographic storytelling has not only showcased the thrill of Pro Rodeo but shown audiences the “behind the chutes” perspective. His work has elevated the Ponoka Stampede itself. We deeply appreciate your talent, passion, and dedication, as well as the countless hours laying in the dirt and maneuvering through the arena in order to capture the perfect shot, editing late into the night, and consistently meeting tight deadlines.
Covy, you truly embody being the first, the best, and the different.
Congratulations from your friends and fans at the Ponoka Stampede!
#ponokastampede #ponokastampede #prorodeo #covymoore #bestphotographer #champion
🎥 @waceyanderson ...
Sep 25
Congratulations to all of our local Ponoka athletes on their Canadian Finals Rodeo qualifications 🇨🇦
Wishing all the athletes, our Queen, Stock Contractors and Officials a safe and successful CFR ❤️
We are PONOKA PROUD 🏆
#ponokastampede #prorodeo #rodeo #cfr
Thank you @kenzielabrie 📸 ...
Sep 15
Happy Birthday to one of the GREATEST to step in the arena 💪🏽
We love you @typrescott15
Wishing you the best 🎂
#bullfighting #bullfighter #rodeo #prorodeo #rodeo ...
Sep 7
Tearing up the track @wpcachucks
📸 @covymoore
#ponokastampede #stampede #chuckwagonracing #wpcachucks ...
Sep 2
Every run is serious business in the Ladies Barrel Racing ⏰
The money is in the milliseconds 💵💵💵
📸 @covymoore
#stampede #ponokastampede #prorodeo #alberta #barrelracing #ladiesbarrelracing #cowgirls #canada ...
Sep 1
The Outriders of the 89th Ponoka Stampede 🏇🏼
📸 @covymoore @billiejphoto
#ponokastampede #wpca #chuckwagonracing #outriders #jockeys #horseracing #stampede ...
Aug 27
The cowgirls of BREAKAWAY certainly put on a show at the 89th Ponoka Stampede 🧨
📸 @covymoore
#breakaway #ponokastampede #prorodeo #rodeo #cowgirls #breakawayroping ...
Aug 24
❤️
#ponokastampede #longlivecowboys #prorodeo #rodeo #cowboys ...
Aug 13
At 91 years young he’s still the MAN.
Hall of Fame Cowboy George Myren finds himself behind the chutes at the 89th Ponoka Stampede cheering on the athletes, playing hockey every week and singing and writing music.
What a LEGEND ❤️
🎥 @aswedgan
#halloffame #cowboy #rodeo #prorodeo #champion #ponokastampede #stampede #alberta ...
Aug 12
Nothing like a grandstand Dad ❤️
Paige’s Dad goes 90 points in the grandstand as Paige clocks the fastest time and cashes in for $19093.60 at the 89th Ponoka Stampede.
Paige is currently sitting 17th in the world standings.
We wish Paige a great season of Barrel Racing.
🎥 @aswedgan
#barrelracing #ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #rodeo ...
Aug 5
HALL OF FAME COWGIRLS 🏆
A moment for the Flying Duces at the 89th Ponoka Stampede!
Congrats to the 2025 Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame Inductees, The Flying Duces! The legendary Trick Riding Sister Duo, Joy and Jerri accepted their plaque amongst friends, family and fans at the 89th Ponoka Stampede.
One of the dynamic team members, 72-year-old Jerri Duce, performed at CFR50 last year, showing us all that age is just a number.
#halloffame #rodeo #prorodeo #trickriding #cowgirls ...
Jul 29
A big thank you to our incredible team of photographers and videographers. Your talent in capturing the Ponoka Stampede through your lens brings our event to life in the most fascinating ways.
Your work not only showcases the excitement and spirit of the Wild West but also preserves these cherished memories for our fans and athletes.
Your dedication and artistry do not go unnoticed, I am truly grateful for the passion and dedication you bring to your craft.
Love you all so much.
Keep rolling 🎥 📸
Amber, Director of Media & Marketing @ponokastampede ...
Jul 26
Hearts of Gold 🧡
Congratulations to our 2025 Errol McMillan Volunteer of the Year Award Recipients, Charlie and Bernie Walcheske.
Charlie and Bernie Walcheske exemplify the ideal volunteers—reliable, humble, and always eager to lend a hand. Whether rain or shine, they have consistently been present, ensuring that the Stampede remains a world-class event for both our community and visitors. Their decades of service reflect their deep-rooted love for the Stampede and the town of Ponoka.
For over 45 years, Charlie and Bernie have been integral to the volunteer community at the Ponoka Stampede. As lifelong residents and business owners, they have raised their three children—Terry, Wayne, and Colleen—in Ponoka and take great joy in hosting their eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Charlie recalls his first memory of the Stampede as a five-year-old who got lost at the event. He began volunteering by serving beer at the downtown beer gardens under director Ivan Lewis. Bernie soon joined him, and their journey as dedicated volunteers took off, leading them to the current grandstand, where they have been fixtures at gates 5 and 6 for the past 12 years.
Charlie expresses, “There are two times of the year I look forward to: Christmas and the Ponoka Stampede... our fellow grandstand volunteers are like extended family.” Their commitment to family and community drives their continued involvement. Bernie adds, “We’ve seen families and kids grow up coming back here year after year. We cherish the familiar faces and the stories of who got married or had a baby. It feels like family, and I can’t imagine not being here each year.”
Despite facing personal challenges and suggestions to slow down, Charlie and Bernie remain steadfast, never missing a shift or an opportunity to return to gates 5 and 6 for all Ponoka Stampede events.
Thank you, Charlie and Bernie, for your unwavering dedication and service to the Ponoka Stampede.
#volunteer #ponokastampede ...
Jul 26
Wranglers of the Wild West of 36!
Thank you for a great Stampede.
#ponokastampede #wranglers ...
Jul 20
MACY ✌🏼❤️ 🇨🇦
Thank you for all you do for the sport of rodeo.
We sure appreciated the extra time you invested in our Press Conference and CBC radio interviews this Stampede.
📸 @covymoore
#breakawayroping #rodeo #prorodeo #cowgirl ...
Jul 18
Wildest in the West 🇨🇦
Stay wild @womensranchbroncchamps
#ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #rodeo #canada #cowgirls #broncridingnation #broncriding #womensranchbronc ...
Jul 14
You thought the West was Wild…..
Born in boots with deep western roots.
The Women’s Ranch Bronc Cowgirls are as tough as they come.
Thank you ladies for another great Ponoka Stampede!
You are truly a fan-favorite.
#ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #alberta #rodeo #cowgirls #bronc #broncriding ...
Jul 12
Cowboy Camaraderie 💪🏽
A bond and support system like no other professional sport.
Long live cowboys.
#stampede #prorodeo #bond #support #longlivecowboys #cowboy
📸 @aswedgan ...
Jul 10
The BEST fans in the WILD WEST!
We sure appreciate you and our athletes do too ❤️
Thank you for a record breaking Ponoka Stampede 💥
See you at the 90th Ponoka Stampede June 25- July 1st, 2025 🇨🇦
📸 @aswedgan
#stampede #ponokastampede #prorodeo #alberta #rodeo ...
Jul 8
Role Models 🤍
Thank you @missponokastampede and @missrodeocanada for being the best ambassadors of the sport of Rodeo and our Western heritage.
#rodeo #rodeoqueen #rodeoroyalty #queen #royalty
Thank you T.J Kennedy for these beautiful photos ...
Jul 8
Cowboy Christmas Cards from Ponoka 🎅
We wish you a Merry Cowboy Christmas 🎄
See you at the 90th Ponoka Stampede June 25th- July 1st, 2025!
📸 @aswedgan
#ponokastampede #cowboy #cowboychristmas #merrychristmas #ponoka #canada #prorodeo #rodeo #stampede ...
Jul 8
Health is WEALTH in Rodeo 💰
A big thank you to the @cpr_sportmedteam team for caring for our athletes at the 89th Ponoka Stampede 🩺
Your expertise is unmatched 🏆
#sportsmed #sportsmedicine #ponokastampede #cowboycare #stampede ...