Innisfail's rodeo cup will surely be running over from June 12 to 15 with the 54th Annual Innisfail Professional Rodeo taking place at the Daines Rodeo Ranch.
Pro rodeo events begin on the evening of Friday, June 13, and the action continues through Sunday afternoon at the rodeo grounds, located about six kilometres north of Innisfail on the old C&E Trail. The slack in timed events takes place Thursday.
“We have so many cowboys and cowgirls competing in the rodeo that we have to hold an overflow day for barrel racing,” said Jack Daines, rodeo organizer.
The professional rodeo will count towards both Canadian and world championships, with each dollar won counting as points towards the championship title.
“The local rodeo draws competitors from across Alberta and Canada, and also brings in competitors from the United States, Australia and around the world,” said Daines. “Our riders get one shot at the big bucks, eight seconds to take home $5,000.”
He added the rodeo has many generous sponsors who have put money up to bring the world's best contestants to the Innisfail rodeo, making it one of the most popular shows around.
The local rodeo is sanctioned by both the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA).
“There will be a rodeo parade through Innisfail starting at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 14. Innisfail rancher Doug Morris will be the parade marshal,” added Daines. “We will also be holding a non-denominational cowboy church on Sunday (June 15) as well at 10:30 a.m. out at the rodeo site.”
Advance tickets to the rodeo are available at the Innisfail Auction Market. Tickets will also be available daily at the rodeo grounds. A pass includes free parking and camping. Pass prices range from $10 to $20.
A rodeo dance will be held nightly, starting Thursday night following the slack in timed events. Local musician Denver Daines will headline Saturday night's entertainment with Pistol Noon performing Friday night.
