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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

Some first-time visitors to the Ponoka Stampede find themselves sticking around for at least another day, after the sixth performance of rodeo Tuesday afternoon. This was the last set of rodeo contestants who had a chance to earn their way into the top twelve scores or times, which come back for the July first Finals… Continue reading 26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 6

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

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

There are a few things you can count on in the tie-down roping at the Ponoka Stampede. Peso, a little mud and Shane Hanchey. After the third performance of the 90th edition, you can add a new one to the list – Joel Harris. Although the forecast rain held off Saturday afternoon, the overnight wet… Continue reading 26 Ponoka Stampede Wrap 3

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

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

They don’t get much more western than Irene Froman. The first tack shop in Ponoka was on her acreage and countless cowboys and cowgirls learned how to ride horses at her school, Needsmor Stables, and you could always find her at the end of the rodeo, on her deck, enjoying a well-earned nip of her… Continue reading Lifelong Volunteer Awarded Honorary 2025 Stampede President

As the Ponoka Stampede celebrates it’s 90th anniversary, it’s a perfect time to give a cowboy salute to the COWGIRL. Ladies of the West have always had an important place at the Ponoka Stampede, but this year you’ll find them center stage. Leading the way will be one of the most recognizable genuine cowgirls you’ll… Continue reading Salute to Cowgirls

Plus, additional free parking and free camping added to support growth Where do the wild horses go? To the Wild Horse Flats Campground. With ninety years of hosting rodeo, the Ponoka Stampede Association has never lost that true sense of western hospitality. It’s one of the reasons you see families coming back year after year.… Continue reading Ponoka Stampede’s Free Camping Expands to Younger Fans