Yeehaw: Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair is under way
Some of the top cowboys from around the world are getting ready to descend on Cloverdale as the rodeo begins.
Thousands of rodeo fans are expected to stream into the Cloverdale Fairgrounds at 176 Street and 60 Avenue this weekend as the re-vamped event attracts top talent from around the world.
Last year, rodeo officials decided to end some of the more controversial events including steer wrestling, tie-down roping and team roping.
“We respect the heritage of pro rodeo, but for our event, in our community, it was the right decision under the circumstances,” said Rodeo Chairperson Penny Smythe. “And because we no longer have all the required pro rodeo events, we were able to refocus our prize money into the events which are truly the most popular here in Cloverdale – Bareback, Saddle Bronc and Bull Riding and Ladies Barrel Racing."
The re-allotment of the $360,000 in prize money means Cloverdale can now attract the top 24 cowboys – and cowgirls – worldwide.
Along with the rodeo competitions, the fair component of the rodeo offers fun for the whole family. In it’s 119th year, the Cloverdale Country Fair is a celebration of country heritage and Western tradition. It boasts hundreds of free-with-admission, exhibits, arts and crafts competitions, horticultural displays as well as B.C.’s largest travelling midway.
Results of Friday's cowboy matchups can be found on our continuing weekend coverage
kdiakiw@surreyleader.com
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