After more than a century, you would think the Hand Hills Lake Stampede would have been recognized for the outstanding work they do.
Well, that’s just what happened. Last week the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) announced its 2017 awards, and the Hand Hills Lake Stampede was named the Small Rodeo Committee of the Year.
“We’ve been trying for 101 years,” laughs Hand Hills Lake Club President Layton Rosin.
Kidding aside, there are not many rodeos in Canada that have as storied a history as the Hand Hills Lake Stampede. Started as a fundraiser for the Red Cross during World War I, it has outlasted many rodeos. In fact, it appears to be having a reassurance in popularity.
“Many thought we were done. People were saying five years ago we wouldn’t make it to our 100th,” he said. “It has gotten bigger and better and then to have them say we are the number one small rodeo.”
Even a greater feat considering how remote the rodeo is.
“We are in the middle of nowhere, we just about have to trick people to get out there,” he chuckles. “But getting this award from the cowboys, that’s pretty cool.”
The Hand Hills Rodeo had a banner year for its centennial and it remained strong.
“Tradition plays a big part because of the centennial. We were really worried there would be a drop-off, but it wasn’t that bad. There are a lot of people that really care. It is more of a community. It’s not just rodeo, we put a lot back in the community.”
They hold all kinds of events to bolster the community including dances, dinners and Halloween parties.
Last year the Donna Griffith Memorial Family Rodeo was established. This is a day of fun where family members of all ages can come out and compete in some friendly events. In its second year, it grew. This is reflective as there are more young families in the area, and they are getting involved.
“There are not many things 100 years old, so when you start showing people the tradition and that you care about it, people want to get behind that,” said Rosin.
There is an awards presentation in Edmonton in November during the National Finals Rodeo.