My First Rodeo

Nov 26

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Please join us in celebrating the incredible life of Frank Mickey, December 1st at 2pm at the Ponoka Stampede Stagecoach Saloon.

Donations in honor of Frank Mickey can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society and the Canadian Pro Rodeo Historical Society.

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Nov 25

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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 ...

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Nov 23

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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. ...

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Nov 11

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Nov 3

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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 ...

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Nov 3

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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 ...

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Oct 7

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That’s our GIRL 😍

@missponokastampede x @covymoore x @canadianfinalsrodeo_official

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Oct 2

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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 ...

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Sep 25

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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 📸

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Sep 15

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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

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Sep 7

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Tearing up the track @wpcachucks

📸 @covymoore

#ponokastampede #stampede #chuckwagonracing #wpcachucks

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Sep 2

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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

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Sep 1

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The Outriders of the 89th Ponoka Stampede 🏇🏼

📸 @covymoore @billiejphoto

#ponokastampede #wpca #chuckwagonracing #outriders #jockeys #horseracing #stampede

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Aug 27

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The cowgirls of BREAKAWAY certainly put on a show at the 89th Ponoka Stampede 🧨

📸 @covymoore

#breakaway #ponokastampede #prorodeo #rodeo #cowgirls #breakawayroping

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Aug 24

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❤️

#ponokastampede #longlivecowboys #prorodeo #rodeo #cowboys

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Aug 13

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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

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Aug 12

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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

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Aug 5

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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 ...

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Jul 29

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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 ...

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Jul 26

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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 ...

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Jul 26

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Wranglers of the Wild West of 36!

Thank you for a great Stampede.

#ponokastampede #wranglers

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Jul 20

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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

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Jul 18

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Wildest in the West 🇨🇦

Stay wild @womensranchbroncchamps

#ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #rodeo #canada #cowgirls #broncridingnation #broncriding #womensranchbronc

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Jul 14

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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

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Jul 12

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Cowboy Camaraderie 💪🏽

A bond and support system like no other professional sport.

Long live cowboys.

#stampede #prorodeo #bond #support #longlivecowboys #cowboy

📸 @aswedgan

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Jul 10

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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

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Jul 8

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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

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Jul 8

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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

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Jul 8

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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

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Jul 8

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Stampede Nights 🎞️🎞️🎞️

Thank you T.J Kennedy Photography 📸

#ponokastampede #concerts #countrymusic #ponoka #stampede

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Jul 8

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Mic Drop 🎤

A big Ponoka Stampede thank you to our voices and AV production team of the 89th Ponoka Stampede!

We appreciate the endless hours of research, preparation and scheduling to ensure on-time performances.

The BEST in the WILD WEST!

#ponokastampede #stampede #rodeo #alberta #canada #av #announcer #media

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Jul 7

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A salute to our 2025 Grand Entry Team ❤️

Well done Cowgirls.

Stay wild and see you at the 90th Ponoka Stampede June 25- July 1st, 2025 🇨🇦

#ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #alberta #rodeo #cowgirls #wild

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Jul 6

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Stampede Soldiers 💪🏽

Thank you Tyler Thomson, Jason Resch, Tyler Kraft, Stran Schlosser and Jeff Resch.

Cowboys. The real deal.

#pickupmen #cowboys #longlivecowboys #ponokastampede #stampede #prorodeo #alberta

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Jul 5

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Here comes the men in black 🖤

A big thank you to our 2025 Ram Pick Up Men of the Ponoka Stampede. Tyler Thomson, Jason Resch, Tyler Kraft, Stran Schlosser and Jeff Resch.

Thank you for keeping our arena and athletes safe 🛟

Wishing you all a great summer ahead.

See you at the 90th Ponoka Stampede June 25- July 1st, 2025.

📸 @carlieborrisphotography @covymoore @billiejphoto

#pickupmen #ponokastampede #rodeo #prorodeo ...

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Jul 4

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Welcome to Canada 🇨🇦

First time to Ponoka but certainly not his first rodeo. @cole_reiner8 resume is filled with wins and accomplishments in Professional Rodeo and a top 10 finish in the world in 2024.

Cole finished eighth overall at the 89th Ponoka Stampede with two great rides and just missed the Showdown by 1.25 points.

Wishing Cole a great summer ahead and thanks for making the trip north.

The biggest checks before the fourth are in the NORTH 🇨🇦

#bareback #ponokastampede ...