Calgary bridge named after professional wrestling legend

Alberta’s government is honouring a professional wrestling legend in the naming of a bridge on Calgary’s southwest ring road.

The westbound bridge on Highway 8, which opened in 2021, will now be named the Stu Hart Memorial Bridge.

Hart founded Stampede Wrestling in Calgary in 1948 and is known for his influence in professional wrestling in Canada and across the globe.

Over more than 30 years, Stampede Wrestling launched the careers of professional wrestlers such as Bret “The Hitman” Hart, Owen Hart, Dynamite Kid, Davey Boy Smith and Jim Neidhart, and others.

Hundreds of aspiring wrestlers learned the sport in the legendary “Dungeon,” the basement gym of the Hart Mansion on Calgary’s west side, which is now a designated heritage site.

“For many Albertans, Stampede Wresting wasn’t just a show. It was a Saturday night tradition. Naming this bridge in Stu’s honour provides a lasting tribute to Stu and his legendary family, not only for promoting the sport of wrestling, but for the family’s countless contributions to Alberta,” said Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors.

The province says the impact of the Hart family exceeds the wrestling ring.

The Hart’s have supported more than 30 charities and civic organizations, including Shriners’ Hospitals for Children and the Alberta Firefighters’ Toy Fund.

Martha Hart has continued the philanthropic legacy through millions of dollars in contributions to causes across Alberta through the Owen Hart Foundation.

“Our family is deeply honoured and thankful to the Alberta government,” Allison Hart said. “Stu always believed in hard work and community, and this bridge is a meaningful tribute to that legacy. It’s touching to know his name will continue to inspire others in the city he loved.”

Stampede Wrestling was one of Canada’s longest-running TV shows, airing in more than 50 countries over its 30 years of broadcasting, bringing professional wrestling to the mainstream.

Stampede Wrestling was bought by the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) in 1984. The company went on to produce many wrestling legends such as Hulk Hogan, Rowdy Roddy Piper, Andre the Giant, The Rock and Stu’s two sons, Owen Hart and Bret “the Hitman” Hart.

The Stu Hart Memorial Bridge, along with its eastbound counterpart, are part of the Highway 8 twinning project between the West Calgary Ring Road and Lott Creek Boulevard.

Construction on the eastbound bridge is expected to be completed by next fall.