The stands were full at the 13th annual Highridge Rodeo, which took place Saturday, July 12 beginning at 1 p.m.
Spectators cheered cowboys and cowgirls from several local areas including Highridge, Barrhead, Westlock, Clyde, Mayerthorpe, and Jarvie. Some participants came from as far as Saskatchewan this year.
Contestants went head to head in Team Roping, Barrel Racing, Tie Down Roping, Bareback, Junior Steer Undecorating, Cow Riding, Junior Breakaway, Saddle Bronc, Bareback, Ladies Steer Undecorating, Steer Riding, and Bull Riding.
Calf Riding and Mutton Bustin, always crowd pleasers, gave the audience entertainment as well.
Highridge Ag Society president Calvin Young said the most popular event at the rodeo continues to be team roping, which saw almost 90 teams this year. Barrel racing always has a lot of participants as well.
Young added rodeo participation was down about 20 per cent this year. The 2013 rodeo had more than 400 entries, but this year despite lower numbers in the arena, he said he still thought the day was a success.
“We had between 300 and 400 entries,” he said.
The crowds were smaller this year as well at the rodeo, which wrapped up at about 5 p.m., but not by much. Young said the turnout was good for what the weather was.
“I’m happy with it,” he said. “It was a good day.”
