Saddle up your horses.
The Highridge Agriculture Society will be putting on a show on July 9 for local rodeo fans.
Gates will open for spectators at 10 a.m. and will cost $5 per person six-years-old and over, while the rodeo will get underway at 1 p.m.
Events will range from saddle bronc riding, to tie-down roping, giving spectators a glimpse of local talent competing against riders and ropers from across northern Alberta.
Young competitors won’t be ignored either, as riders under 10 years old will be given the chance to show their stuff in events like mutton busting and peewee barrels.
“The rodeo continues to grow, especially for junior participants. Last year was probably our most successful year in seven years,” said Dennis Kasowsky, the rodeo’s arena director.
The rodeo saw 99 contestants in 2003, while in 2010 the total hit 226. The goal is to get more kids riding and roping.
“We focus on juniors to try and give them a start somewhere without any intimidation,” said Kasowsky.
The Highridge Rodeo is a chance for families to cheer on the next generation of rodeo performers, whether it is in mutton busting or barrel racing. The dinner and dance that follows the performances will give locals and visitors a chance to catch-up.
“The rodeo is a chance to give grannies, grandpas, moms and dads an opportunity to watch their kids start out,” said Kasowsky.
For older athletes, the small rodeo can have its difficulties in filling classes in events like bareback bronc riding or bull riding, where contestants are discouraged when they get hurt, said Kasowsky.
The biggest draw for a select few who come out to ride the broncs, for example, is the Tri-County Saddle Series, which is featured at three rodeos; Highridge, Rocky Ridge and Smith.
Riders collect points at each rodeo, which are then tallied for the series. The overall winner gets a saddle as a prize.
“The goal for the competition is to get neighbours and friends to saddle up in the non-association events. When it’s boiled down to its base elements, the Highridge Rodeo is about community. Without volunteers it doesn’t go smooth,” said Kasowsky.
The Highridge Rodeo is hoping a large set of younger contestants will participate this year.
“As long as the younger set continues to show up, the rodeo will continue to draw a crowd to celebrate the agricultural heritage of the area,” said Kasowsky.
To register for the Highridge rodeo contact Robin at 780-674-2274. The entry date is set for June 30 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and costs $30 for adults and $20 for junior riders. The dance is scheduled for July 9 at 10 p.m. and costs $15 per person. Minors are not allowed to attend the dance, and ID will be required.
