Calgary Stampede hosts inaugural First Nations Rodeo and Relay

The Calgary Stampede hosted the inaugural First Nations rodeo and relay Saturday, the first standalone event of its kind at Stampede Park.

Four teams competed for a chance to compete during the Stampede Rodeo in July.

Bo Vocu, the president of the Indian National Finals Rodeo, explained the events the teams participated in. Those were bareback riding, ladies’ breakaway roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, and team roping.

“The Stampede Park, everyone dreams of competing here, whether you live in the States or in Canada. And the opportunity for these guys to get to compete here just means so much to ’em,” he told CityNews.

The event showcased not only the skills and grit of the competitors but also highlighted Indigenous culture.

“We’re honouring the shapeshifters, so inside the dance you’ll see anyone hoop dance transform from an eagle to a bear, bear to a snake, and it’s up to the viewer to see what the story is inside of the dance,” said hoop dancer Dallas Arcand Jr.

Arcand Jr. adds that while there’s always an Indigenous Village at Stampede, it’s incredible that this standalone event is happening, with all Indigenous competitors, on such a massive stage.

Another spectator says this event is a sign of the growth of the First Nations Relay.

“I’m First Nations, we see it all the time, but the good thing about it is to see all the people out there filling this crowd that are not First Nations, and they’re seeing it for the first time. Thats what makes it exciting for us,” Croser said.

The final event was relay racing, in which competitors ride bareback and switch horses at the end of every lap. With the venue being iconic for many competitors, some say it’s always been a goal to compete on this stage.

“So cool, it’s like every cowboy’s dream, especially to stand up on that stage … it’s awesome to be here,” said bareback rider Ty Ferguson.

Justine Begay, the winner of the ladies’ breakaway roping, says it’s an important milestone not only to be at this event, but to see it stand on its own as a first.

“This is the first Native American rodeo that we have here. And to be able to compete, and win one of these buckles that I’ve only dreamed about is amazing,” she said.

The Chief Enoch Lapotac relay team set the fastest time of the evening, earning themselves a spot to compete at Stampede.

“It feels amazing, it’s breathtaking, I just want to cry, honestly,” said Tyrone Jackson.

“So much emotions building up in front of me. It means a lot. My family would be so proud of me right now.”