Author: Dianne Finstad

26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 7

The 2026 edition of the Ponoka Stampede will be memorable not only as the 90th, but also for some challenging weather conditions. It kept the Stampede Association Board hopping to adapt to the ongoing rain, which led to the eventual cancellation of the chuckwagon races. However, great team and machinery efforts enabled the arena to… Continue reading 26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 7

26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 5

Age is irrelevant when you’re riding like a youngster. At least Orin Larsen would vouch for that. The Manitoba-raised cowboy has been tangling with bareback horses professionally for fifteen years. It’s a rodeo event known for being hard on the body. While he’s had his share of injuries, Larsen is feeling better at 35 than… Continue reading 26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 5

26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 4

Attitude is everything when it comes to facing challenges. And on a muddy day at the Ponoka Stampede, the contestants who came to play did have some fun. That included team ropers Joey Romo II, and his header, Brett Buss. “I told Joey we’re just a pair of old guys that are actually kids playing… Continue reading 26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 4

26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 2

Rodeo dreams are often born early. Watching them start to become true is a treat. Such was the case when Jestin Jacklin nodded his head in the bull riding at the 90th Ponoka Stampede. Just eight seconds later, the crowd was roaring in support as one of the town’s own young cowboys not only made… Continue reading 26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 2

26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 1

The 90th Ponoka Stampede is saluting the cowgirl, and one of the ways of doing so is by boosting the prize money in the newest ladies event. Breakaway roping is taking the pro rodeo world by storm and made its debut at the 2025 Ponoka Stampede, with a $30,000 purse. This year, organizers upped it… Continue reading 26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 1