Not your typical rodeo

Posted on: July 9, 2010 J A McRae

Shannon LeClair – Times Reporter

Last weekend saw the second annual Canadian Rockies International Rodeo, CRIR, come to Strathmore. The rodeo consisted of representatives from the Alberta Rockies Gay Rodeo Association, ARGRA, and the International Gay Rodeo Association, IGRA. This was the 17th annual Canadian Gay Rodeo, but only Strathmore’s second time hosting it. President of ARGRA, Greg Holsworth, said they plan to host it again in Strathmore next year, and in years to come. “We couldn’t be happier to be here, we’ve felt nothing but welcome,” said Holsworth. The festivities started on Canada Day this year and ran until the fourth. The rodeo boasted the usual events which would be seen at any small town rodeo, with the biggest difference being men and women could compete in all events. Some events were created specifically for the gay rodeo: steer decorating for instance, goat dressing and wild drag.

For the goat dressing it was a two-person team, and they had to put a pair of underwear on a goat, and make sure they didn’t fall off.

“We’re trying to build more than a rodeo,” said Holsworth. There was a silent auction, a gay art show, entertainers and a dance. For those who wanted, there was even camping, so people would not have to drink and drive, and they would be right next to the grounds. People came from all over to take part in the rodeo, either as a spectator or a competitor.

“The furthest I know of is from Australia,” said Holsworth. ESPN was there as well, filming the events and following the circuit. There are 15 gay rodeos being held in North America this year, and the competitors who were here are part of the circuit. The top five will be invited to the finals, which will be taking place sometime in November. The rodeo was also 100 per cent volunteer driven, with most of the volunteers from Calgary. The next gay rodeo in Strathmore will be July 1 to 3, 2011.