Triumph and tragedy at Calgary Stampede

CALGARY (660 NEWS) — When the clock strikes midnight this evening, it will officially mark the end of the 2019 Calgary Stampede. The event was full of highs and lows, notably Nik Wallenda’s record-breaking tightrope walk.

He gave visitors quite the show, according to Dana Peers, president of the Stampede board of directors.

“As he walked a record-breaking 1,703 feet from Kids Midway to Rotary House across Stampede Park…it took Wallenda only 40 minutes to complete the walk — breaking the record for the longest, unsupported urban high-wire walk.”

Once again, the Stampede showband won the World Association of Marching Show Bands championship for the sixth time — a new record. Peers is thrilled they were able to host the competition.

“The 2019 WAMSB world championship required each of the bands to compete in a variety of competitions over the weekend including a drumline battle featuring performances each night,” he said. “The top bands went head to head in a highly anticipated championship final on July 8.”

READ MORE: Calgary Stampede Showband captures sixth title in front of home crowd

While the musical performances and other spectacles delighted visitors from around the world, it was difficult to ignore the heartbreak on the track after six horses died for varying reasons in the chuckwagon races.

“I would say to all of our fans, the Stampede remains firmly committed to the continuous improvement of our animal care practices and our zero-tolerance policy for preventable accidents and injuries,” said Warren Connell, Stampede CEO.

More than 5,000 animals took part in Stampede over the course of the 10-day event.

“Unfortunately this year was a difficult year. We acknowledge that despite our best efforts to reduce risk we are dealing with animals and there is an element of unpredictability,” Connell stated. “Injuries can occur even in the best and safest conditions. Any occurrence is felt deeply by our organization, stakeholders and competitors.”

READ MORE: Chuckwagon driver suspended after horse dies during Rangeland Derby

In an unprecedented move, the Chuckwagon Safety Commission handed driver Chad Harden a $10,000 fine and ban for his role in triggering a collision that killed another driver’s horse. He will be able to apply to participate in the Stampede in September.

Two other horses taking part in the chuckwagon races also died in the final week of Stampede. One death was attributed to a medical condition, while the other was euthanized after breaking its leg.

Animal rights groups including the Calgary Humane Society have ramped up their calls to ban the event.