Planning for Strathmore Heritage Days going smoothly

Times Contributor  

 

With August coming closer, many Strathmore residents are counting down the days until Heritage Days begins, and plans are being finalized.

Darcy Ledene, Strathmore & District Agricultural Society General Manager, says this year’s Strathmore Heritage Days Stampede is going to have some new elements, some fan favourites as well as some old traditions being brought back.

The freestyle motocross that has been enjoyed in previous years is returning, Ledene confirms. “They’re going to be doing some performances for the crowds,” says Ledene. The motocross company Global FMX will be entertaining crowds, proudly presented by Strathmore Motor Sports.

Niki Cammaert-Flundra, trick rider, stunt woman and horse entertainer will also be coming back with a new performance that Ledene said is “receiving some great reviews all over the rodeo world.” 

Ledene said the rodeo hasn’t changed since last year with their seven standard events and three novice events, and still offers great entertainment for the family, including pony races.

The Encana stage will have some new and old entertainers, such as a Bon Jovi tribute act, Sebastian Steele the hypnotist, and local talents that still have to be confirmed.

In the Encana 4-H arena, Ledene said there will be mini chuckwagons, trick riders and a new display of the last 100 years of agriculture so people can see how it has evolved, including a clean cattle liner.

 “The entire show is a lot of fun, we pride ourselves on being the second largest CPRA rodeo in Canada.  We pride ourselves on being a major stop on the WPC Chuckwagon tour,” said Ledene.

Ledene says the Running with the Bulls event, which is celebrating it’s 10th anniversary, is another source of pride for Strathmore.

Along with sunscreen, cowboy hats and clothing for all types of weather, Ledene encourages people to bring their “enthusiasm.”

“In order for [Heritage Days] to continue to grow and evolve into a bigger and better event, we do need the community’s support.”

 “This is our largest fundraiser of the year,” Ledene reminds, “all that the money that is raised, which we hope is a lot, goes right back into the community.”

The Strathmore Heritages Days Stampede begins on August 3 and runs until August 6. To purchase tickets, please either visit the Strathmore AG office or phone 403-934-5811.