The Calgary Stampede and Exhibition

The Calgary Stampede and Exhibition is rich in tradition and it is also known for the cowboy atmosphere that takes over the city, everybody gets out the cowboy boots and Stetsons for the 10-11 days of good fun. This year (2006) it starts with the Calgary Stampede Parade on July 7th. Calgary's dedicated volunteers and community supporters present the world's largest western parade as the "Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth" kick-off to the over 350,000 on-route spectators and a global television audience.

In 1912 the great Stampede was born from the vision of Guy Weadick. Guy was a famous working cowboy and vaudeville entertainer featured in the traveling wild-west shows that were popular world-wide in the early 1900s. He was a man with a dream of celebrating the romance of the old west. The Stampede we enjoy today has evolved from Guy's vision. He was successful because he understood that as much as things change, we need to believe in the way things were. Every year, the Stampede reminds us that Guy was right; fundamentally we believe in the same western values today as our grandparents did in 1912.

In the early 1920, the Exhibition part was added to the Stampede, giving western farmers and ranchers a showplace for their horses and cattle. This too was later expanded to take in all farm livestock, whether two-legged or four. This year, 2006, the agricultural portion of the Exhibition has been tagged "Ag-tivity Day in the City" to help celebrate Alberta agriculture. Cattle, canola, chicken and even egg producers will be on hand. You'll see beef on the hoof, enjoy some Alberta Beef and you can grab a "I Love Alberta Beef" bumper sticker. That should impress the folks back in Long Island, although perhaps you should exercise discretion in displaying in Texas cattle country!

Every year there are hundreds of thousands of tourists from around the world who come just for the Stampeded and Exhibition. Among those visitors are a number of RV Caravans that wind their way north from the USA on the long drive to Alaska. Some of these caravans have over a hundred units of every shape and size and their tour is timed to arrive in Calgary the day before the Parade which is always on a Friday and stay over the weekend, leaving on their trek Monday morning.

A highlight of the show is of course the Rodeo. The Calgary Stampede's rodeo pays out some of the biggest prize money in the sport, always attracts the best riders and ropers from around the world and many of it's winners have gone on to win the National Finals Rodeo in the fall.

Like any sport, rodeo has its fair share of spills and thrills, talented athletes and unsung heroes. Besides the saddle and bareback riding events, the bull riding is always a big attraction. Ladies have barrel racing competitions. For comic relief (except for the contestants) there's a wild cow milking event. Every evening there are the chuckwagon races, followed by the Grandstand Show.

In case you are in the dark about rodeos, here is a little "Rodeo 101". There are two main categories of events, bucking and timed. Bucking is where most of the thrills, spills and crashes occur. Bucking events cover bareback and saddle bronc riding and bull riding. In all three events, cowboys hang on for dear life while trying to control the movements of their animal and themselves. Incidentally, the "spurs" the contestants were are nothing more than a smooth disc and have no effect on the animal. They wear them because the rider is judged on the smoothness of his ride and his spurring technique while he holds on to a saddle or rope with one hand. These account for half his points, the other half is awarded by how hard the horse or bull tried to buck him off. To complete the ride he must stay on for 8 seconds; that's a long time of the back of a bucking horse or bull.

Barrel Racing, Steer Wrestling and tie-down roping are the timed events at rodeos. Steer wrestling and tie-down roping are both inspired by real work done everyday on the ranch. In steer wrestling, a hazed (slapped on the butt with a straw hat) steer is released from it's pen. When it reached the end of its head start, a breakaway cord automatically releases the barrier rope in front of the cowboy, allowing him to race after the steer on his horse. He eased down the right side of his horse, reaching for the steer. After he has grasped the horns, he leaves his horse (who's in a full gallop) and digs his heels into the ground to slow the animal. Using leverage and the momentum of the moving steer, the steer wrestler rolls the animal onto its side.

Being quick and accurate with a rope aren't the only requirements in Tie-down Roping (also called Calf Roping but they are big calves!). A successful roper must also be an experienced horseman and a fast sprinter. After roping (throwing a lasso, again at a full gallop - every rodeo event is done at a full gallop!) the tie-down, the cowboy quickly dismounts while his horse backs up just enough to keep tension on the rope, runs to the animal, lifts and lays it on its side and ties any three legs together. Once he completes his tie, he remounts his horse and allows slack in the lasso rope, the animal must remain tied for six seconds. It is important to note that contestants are fined for any unnecessary roughness.

For the final timed event, Barrel Racing, female contestants must circle three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern. Rider or horse can move a barrel, but is assessed a five-second penalty if either knocks the barrel over. The fastest time wins in this extremely athletic event for both horse and rider.

The Chuckwagon Races were taken from the actual cattle drives, when the wagon would be loaded up, the tent taken down and the cook would drive his team up ahead of the drive to where the herd would be held overnight. Sometimes there would be two or three ranches driving together. The cooks would race each other to get the best spot to set up camp. The Chuckwagon Races at the Stampede are billed as "The Half Mile of Hell". Each chuckwagon has its driver, a team of four horses and four outriders (cowboys riding their horses.) That's four wagons, four drivers, 16 horses and sixteen outriders all vying for the same space next to the rail while racing at a full gallop around a half mile track. There's a very loud air horn blowing to start the race, there's an announcer going nuts over the PA system as he calls the race, the wagons and horses are thundering around the track and the crowd's on its feet at the finish screaming their heads off. Sound crazy? Yes. Exciting? You have to see it to believe it. There's nothing else like it. And in five minutes, the next race is off and running and it starts all over again!

There are people who travel thousands of miles every year to take in "The Greatest Show Outdoor Show on Earth". They'll book their rooms for next year before they leave for home this year. It's enthusiasts like these, from far and near, that continue to make the Calgary Stampede and Exhibition what it is.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

So You Wanna Be a Cowgirl?

Seems there's a resurgence of interest in all things Western, probably because we love the idea of living wild and free. The West is unimaginably beautiful - God's Country they call it out here in Colorado. A few years ago I quit my job, sold everything and moved here to work outside. I'd hardly call myself a cowgirl, but it sure is fun playing at one.

There's nothing comparable to waking up to the Sangre de Cristo mountains turning purple, pink, then white in the morning sun. From my bedroom (which is also my living room, kitchen and office) I can see a herd of 60-some horses, heading down from the trees where they huddled the night before, and looking for hay. I'll pull on my jeans (have to go out anyway, to use the "facilities" such as they are) and head down to the pasture. Some days, a bunch of them will just walk up to me like puppy dogs, sniffing me and covering my face with their warm, sweet breath. Horses transmit amazing power to me somehow and I'm awed and humbled by them. I'm also grateful to be able to make a living hanging around them.

I'm not a real cowgirl, mind you. Transplanted from Jersey, I'm just a city girl lucky enough to have shucked everything to play outside. Sure I get knee high in it; I tack and ride them and help with round up and horse chores but the cowboys tolerate me. They know I'm just a dude (city slicker) and pretty harmless. Cowboys can be very sexy and alluring in the short run but believe me, when you work a ranch they expect you to haul your own saddle, and carry your weight in every way. They sure don't cotton to "helpless" out here.

I was a lawyer and a teacher; I've raised three boys by myself. Part of this new beginning is just detoxing from my stress-filled existence. You may need to do the same thing. You might not be able to transform your whole lifestyle but heck, you could come play cowgirl for a week or so, right? Maybe it's time to "cowgirl up" honey, and change your perspective on life a little.

Sometimes folks can't make these kind of changes until the kids are gone and "work" is over. Pre-tirement is a great chance to change your life completely. Did you know that most folks "retire" several times and often continue working part time, full time, in completely new environments and careers. And the truth is, it's never too late to live out your childhood dreams. I was 48 years old when I headed west to work on a ranch. The change was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

So You Wanna Be a Cowgirl?

Seems there's a resurgence of interest in all things Western, probably because we love the idea of living wild and free. The West is unimaginably beautiful - God's Country they call it out here in Colorado. A few years ago I quit my job, sold everything and moved here to work outside. I'd hardly call myself a cowgirl, but it sure is fun playing at one.

There's nothing comparable to waking up to the Sangre de Cristo mountains turning purple, pink, then white in the morning sun. From my bedroom (which is also my living room, kitchen and office) I can see a herd of 60-some horses, heading down from the trees where they huddled the night before, and looking for hay. I'll pull on my jeans (have to go out anyway, to use the "facilities" such as they are) and head down to the pasture. Some days, a bunch of them will just walk up to me like puppy dogs, sniffing me and covering my face with their warm, sweet breath. Horses transmit amazing power to me somehow and I'm awed and humbled by them. I'm also grateful to be able to make a living hanging around them.

I'm not a real cowgirl, mind you. Transplanted from Jersey, I'm just a city girl lucky enough to have shucked everything to play outside. Sure I get knee high in it; I tack and ride them and help with round up and horse chores but the cowboys tolerate me. They know I'm just a dude (city slicker) and pretty harmless. Cowboys can be very sexy and alluring in the short run but believe me, when you work a ranch they expect you to haul your own saddle, and carry your weight in every way. They sure don't cotton to "helpless" out here.

I was a lawyer and a teacher; I've raised three boys by myself. Part of this new beginning is just detoxing from my stress-filled existence. You may need to do the same thing. You might not be able to transform your whole lifestyle but heck, you could come play cowgirl for a week or so, right? Maybe it's time to "cowgirl up" honey, and change your perspective on life a little.

Sometimes folks can't make these kind of changes until the kids are gone and "work" is over. Pre-tirement is a great chance to change your life completely. Did you know that most folks "retire" several times and often continue working part time, full time, in completely new environments and careers. And the truth is, it's never too late to live out your childhood dreams. I was 48 years old when I headed west to work on a ranch. The change was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

The Calgary Stampede and Exhibition

The Calgary Stampede and Exhibition is rich in tradition and it is also known for the cowboy atmosphere that takes over the city, everybody gets out the cowboy boots and Stetsons for the 10-11 days of good fun. This year (2006) it starts with the Calgary Stampede Parade on July 7th. Calgary's dedicated volunteers and community supporters present the world's largest western parade as the "Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth" kick-off to the over 350,000 on-route spectators and a global television audience.

In 1912 the great Stampede was born from the vision of Guy Weadick. Guy was a famous working cowboy and vaudeville entertainer featured in the traveling wild-west shows that were popular world-wide in the early 1900s. He was a man with a dream of celebrating the romance of the old west. The Stampede we enjoy today has evolved from Guy's vision. He was successful because he understood that as much as things change, we need to believe in the way things were. Every year, the Stampede reminds us that Guy was right; fundamentally we believe in the same western values today as our grandparents did in 1912.

In the early 1920, the Exhibition part was added to the Stampede, giving western farmers and ranchers a showplace for their horses and cattle. This too was later expanded to take in all farm livestock, whether two-legged or four. This year, 2006, the agricultural portion of the Exhibition has been tagged "Ag-tivity Day in the City" to help celebrate Alberta agriculture. Cattle, canola, chicken and even egg producers will be on hand. You'll see beef on the hoof, enjoy some Alberta Beef and you can grab a "I Love Alberta Beef" bumper sticker. That should impress the folks back in Long Island, although perhaps you should exercise discretion in displaying in Texas cattle country!

Every year there are hundreds of thousands of tourists from around the world who come just for the Stampeded and Exhibition. Among those visitors are a number of RV Caravans that wind their way north from the USA on the long drive to Alaska. Some of these caravans have over a hundred units of every shape and size and their tour is timed to arrive in Calgary the day before the Parade which is always on a Friday and stay over the weekend, leaving on their trek Monday morning.

A highlight of the show is of course the Rodeo. The Calgary Stampede's rodeo pays out some of the biggest prize money in the sport, always attracts the best riders and ropers from around the world and many of it's winners have gone on to win the National Finals Rodeo in the fall.

Like any sport, rodeo has its fair share of spills and thrills, talented athletes and unsung heroes. Besides the saddle and bareback riding events, the bull riding is always a big attraction. Ladies have barrel racing competitions. For comic relief (except for the contestants) there's a wild cow milking event. Every evening there are the chuckwagon races, followed by the Grandstand Show.

In case you are in the dark about rodeos, here is a little "Rodeo 101". There are two main categories of events, bucking and timed. Bucking is where most of the thrills, spills and crashes occur. Bucking events cover bareback and saddle bronc riding and bull riding. In all three events, cowboys hang on for dear life while trying to control the movements of their animal and themselves. Incidentally, the "spurs" the contestants were are nothing more than a smooth disc and have no effect on the animal. They wear them because the rider is judged on the smoothness of his ride and his spurring technique while he holds on to a saddle or rope with one hand. These account for half his points, the other half is awarded by how hard the horse or bull tried to buck him off. To complete the ride he must stay on for 8 seconds; that's a long time of the back of a bucking horse or bull.

Barrel Racing, Steer Wrestling and tie-down roping are the timed events at rodeos. Steer wrestling and tie-down roping are both inspired by real work done everyday on the ranch. In steer wrestling, a hazed (slapped on the butt with a straw hat) steer is released from it's pen. When it reached the end of its head start, a breakaway cord automatically releases the barrier rope in front of the cowboy, allowing him to race after the steer on his horse. He eased down the right side of his horse, reaching for the steer. After he has grasped the horns, he leaves his horse (who's in a full gallop) and digs his heels into the ground to slow the animal. Using leverage and the momentum of the moving steer, the steer wrestler rolls the animal onto its side.

Being quick and accurate with a rope aren't the only requirements in Tie-down Roping (also called Calf Roping but they are big calves!). A successful roper must also be an experienced horseman and a fast sprinter. After roping (throwing a lasso, again at a full gallop - every rodeo event is done at a full gallop!) the tie-down, the cowboy quickly dismounts while his horse backs up just enough to keep tension on the rope, runs to the animal, lifts and lays it on its side and ties any three legs together. Once he completes his tie, he remounts his horse and allows slack in the lasso rope, the animal must remain tied for six seconds. It is important to note that contestants are fined for any unnecessary roughness.

For the final timed event, Barrel Racing, female contestants must circle three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern. Rider or horse can move a barrel, but is assessed a five-second penalty if either knocks the barrel over. The fastest time wins in this extremely athletic event for both horse and rider.

The Chuckwagon Races were taken from the actual cattle drives, when the wagon would be loaded up, the tent taken down and the cook would drive his team up ahead of the drive to where the herd would be held overnight. Sometimes there would be two or three ranches driving together. The cooks would race each other to get the best spot to set up camp. The Chuckwagon Races at the Stampede are billed as "The Half Mile of Hell". Each chuckwagon has its driver, a team of four horses and four outriders (cowboys riding their horses.) That's four wagons, four drivers, 16 horses and sixteen outriders all vying for the same space next to the rail while racing at a full gallop around a half mile track. There's a very loud air horn blowing to start the race, there's an announcer going nuts over the PA system as he calls the race, the wagons and horses are thundering around the track and the crowd's on its feet at the finish screaming their heads off. Sound crazy? Yes. Exciting? You have to see it to believe it. There's nothing else like it. And in five minutes, the next race is off and running and it starts all over again!

There are people who travel thousands of miles every year to take in "The Greatest Show Outdoor Show on Earth". They'll book their rooms for next year before they leave for home this year. It's enthusiasts like these, from far and near, that continue to make the Calgary Stampede and Exhibition what it is.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

The Calgary Stampede and Exhibition

The Calgary Stampede and Exhibition is rich in tradition and it is also known for the cowboy atmosphere that takes over the city, everybody gets out the cowboy boots and Stetsons for the 10-11 days of good fun. This year (2006) it starts with the Calgary Stampede Parade on July 7th. Calgary's dedicated volunteers and community supporters present the world's largest western parade as the "Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth" kick-off to the over 350,000 on-route spectators and a global television audience.

In 1912 the great Stampede was born from the vision of Guy Weadick. Guy was a famous working cowboy and vaudeville entertainer featured in the traveling wild-west shows that were popular world-wide in the early 1900s. He was a man with a dream of celebrating the romance of the old west. The Stampede we enjoy today has evolved from Guy's vision. He was successful because he understood that as much as things change, we need to believe in the way things were. Every year, the Stampede reminds us that Guy was right; fundamentally we believe in the same western values today as our grandparents did in 1912.

In the early 1920, the Exhibition part was added to the Stampede, giving western farmers and ranchers a showplace for their horses and cattle. This too was later expanded to take in all farm livestock, whether two-legged or four. This year, 2006, the agricultural portion of the Exhibition has been tagged "Ag-tivity Day in the City" to help celebrate Alberta agriculture. Cattle, canola, chicken and even egg producers will be on hand. You'll see beef on the hoof, enjoy some Alberta Beef and you can grab a "I Love Alberta Beef" bumper sticker. That should impress the folks back in Long Island, although perhaps you should exercise discretion in displaying in Texas cattle country!

Every year there are hundreds of thousands of tourists from around the world who come just for the Stampeded and Exhibition. Among those visitors are a number of RV Caravans that wind their way north from the USA on the long drive to Alaska. Some of these caravans have over a hundred units of every shape and size and their tour is timed to arrive in Calgary the day before the Parade which is always on a Friday and stay over the weekend, leaving on their trek Monday morning.

A highlight of the show is of course the Rodeo. The Calgary Stampede's rodeo pays out some of the biggest prize money in the sport, always attracts the best riders and ropers from around the world and many of it's winners have gone on to win the National Finals Rodeo in the fall.

Like any sport, rodeo has its fair share of spills and thrills, talented athletes and unsung heroes. Besides the saddle and bareback riding events, the bull riding is always a big attraction. Ladies have barrel racing competitions. For comic relief (except for the contestants) there's a wild cow milking event. Every evening there are the chuckwagon races, followed by the Grandstand Show.

In case you are in the dark about rodeos, here is a little "Rodeo 101". There are two main categories of events, bucking and timed. Bucking is where most of the thrills, spills and crashes occur. Bucking events cover bareback and saddle bronc riding and bull riding. In all three events, cowboys hang on for dear life while trying to control the movements of their animal and themselves. Incidentally, the "spurs" the contestants were are nothing more than a smooth disc and have no effect on the animal. They wear them because the rider is judged on the smoothness of his ride and his spurring technique while he holds on to a saddle or rope with one hand. These account for half his points, the other half is awarded by how hard the horse or bull tried to buck him off. To complete the ride he must stay on for 8 seconds; that's a long time of the back of a bucking horse or bull.

Barrel Racing, Steer Wrestling and tie-down roping are the timed events at rodeos. Steer wrestling and tie-down roping are both inspired by real work done everyday on the ranch. In steer wrestling, a hazed (slapped on the butt with a straw hat) steer is released from it's pen. When it reached the end of its head start, a breakaway cord automatically releases the barrier rope in front of the cowboy, allowing him to race after the steer on his horse. He eased down the right side of his horse, reaching for the steer. After he has grasped the horns, he leaves his horse (who's in a full gallop) and digs his heels into the ground to slow the animal. Using leverage and the momentum of the moving steer, the steer wrestler rolls the animal onto its side.

Being quick and accurate with a rope aren't the only requirements in Tie-down Roping (also called Calf Roping but they are big calves!). A successful roper must also be an experienced horseman and a fast sprinter. After roping (throwing a lasso, again at a full gallop - every rodeo event is done at a full gallop!) the tie-down, the cowboy quickly dismounts while his horse backs up just enough to keep tension on the rope, runs to the animal, lifts and lays it on its side and ties any three legs together. Once he completes his tie, he remounts his horse and allows slack in the lasso rope, the animal must remain tied for six seconds. It is important to note that contestants are fined for any unnecessary roughness.

For the final timed event, Barrel Racing, female contestants must circle three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern. Rider or horse can move a barrel, but is assessed a five-second penalty if either knocks the barrel over. The fastest time wins in this extremely athletic event for both horse and rider.

The Chuckwagon Races were taken from the actual cattle drives, when the wagon would be loaded up, the tent taken down and the cook would drive his team up ahead of the drive to where the herd would be held overnight. Sometimes there would be two or three ranches driving together. The cooks would race each other to get the best spot to set up camp. The Chuckwagon Races at the Stampede are billed as "The Half Mile of Hell". Each chuckwagon has its driver, a team of four horses and four outriders (cowboys riding their horses.) That's four wagons, four drivers, 16 horses and sixteen outriders all vying for the same space next to the rail while racing at a full gallop around a half mile track. There's a very loud air horn blowing to start the race, there's an announcer going nuts over the PA system as he calls the race, the wagons and horses are thundering around the track and the crowd's on its feet at the finish screaming their heads off. Sound crazy? Yes. Exciting? You have to see it to believe it. There's nothing else like it. And in five minutes, the next race is off and running and it starts all over again!

There are people who travel thousands of miles every year to take in "The Greatest Show Outdoor Show on Earth". They'll book their rooms for next year before they leave for home this year. It's enthusiasts like these, from far and near, that continue to make the Calgary Stampede and Exhibition what it is.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

So You Wanna Be a Cowgirl?

Seems there's a resurgence of interest in all things Western, probably because we love the idea of living wild and free. The West is unimaginably beautiful - God's Country they call it out here in Colorado. A few years ago I quit my job, sold everything and moved here to work outside. I'd hardly call myself a cowgirl, but it sure is fun playing at one.

There's nothing comparable to waking up to the Sangre de Cristo mountains turning purple, pink, then white in the morning sun. From my bedroom (which is also my living room, kitchen and office) I can see a herd of 60-some horses, heading down from the trees where they huddled the night before, and looking for hay. I'll pull on my jeans (have to go out anyway, to use the "facilities" such as they are) and head down to the pasture. Some days, a bunch of them will just walk up to me like puppy dogs, sniffing me and covering my face with their warm, sweet breath. Horses transmit amazing power to me somehow and I'm awed and humbled by them. I'm also grateful to be able to make a living hanging around them.

I'm not a real cowgirl, mind you. Transplanted from Jersey, I'm just a city girl lucky enough to have shucked everything to play outside. Sure I get knee high in it; I tack and ride them and help with round up and horse chores but the cowboys tolerate me. They know I'm just a dude (city slicker) and pretty harmless. Cowboys can be very sexy and alluring in the short run but believe me, when you work a ranch they expect you to haul your own saddle, and carry your weight in every way. They sure don't cotton to "helpless" out here.

I was a lawyer and a teacher; I've raised three boys by myself. Part of this new beginning is just detoxing from my stress-filled existence. You may need to do the same thing. You might not be able to transform your whole lifestyle but heck, you could come play cowgirl for a week or so, right? Maybe it's time to "cowgirl up" honey, and change your perspective on life a little.

Sometimes folks can't make these kind of changes until the kids are gone and "work" is over. Pre-tirement is a great chance to change your life completely. Did you know that most folks "retire" several times and often continue working part time, full time, in completely new environments and careers. And the truth is, it's never too late to live out your childhood dreams. I was 48 years old when I headed west to work on a ranch. The change was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

So You Wanna Be a Cowgirl?

Seems there's a resurgence of interest in all things Western, probably because we love the idea of living wild and free. The West is unimaginably beautiful - God's Country they call it out here in Colorado. A few years ago I quit my job, sold everything and moved here to work outside. I'd hardly call myself a cowgirl, but it sure is fun playing at one.

There's nothing comparable to waking up to the Sangre de Cristo mountains turning purple, pink, then white in the morning sun. From my bedroom (which is also my living room, kitchen and office) I can see a herd of 60-some horses, heading down from the trees where they huddled the night before, and looking for hay. I'll pull on my jeans (have to go out anyway, to use the "facilities" such as they are) and head down to the pasture. Some days, a bunch of them will just walk up to me like puppy dogs, sniffing me and covering my face with their warm, sweet breath. Horses transmit amazing power to me somehow and I'm awed and humbled by them. I'm also grateful to be able to make a living hanging around them.

I'm not a real cowgirl, mind you. Transplanted from Jersey, I'm just a city girl lucky enough to have shucked everything to play outside. Sure I get knee high in it; I tack and ride them and help with round up and horse chores but the cowboys tolerate me. They know I'm just a dude (city slicker) and pretty harmless. Cowboys can be very sexy and alluring in the short run but believe me, when you work a ranch they expect you to haul your own saddle, and carry your weight in every way. They sure don't cotton to "helpless" out here.

I was a lawyer and a teacher; I've raised three boys by myself. Part of this new beginning is just detoxing from my stress-filled existence. You may need to do the same thing. You might not be able to transform your whole lifestyle but heck, you could come play cowgirl for a week or so, right? Maybe it's time to "cowgirl up" honey, and change your perspective on life a little.

Sometimes folks can't make these kind of changes until the kids are gone and "work" is over. Pre-tirement is a great chance to change your life completely. Did you know that most folks "retire" several times and often continue working part time, full time, in completely new environments and careers. And the truth is, it's never too late to live out your childhood dreams. I was 48 years old when I headed west to work on a ranch. The change was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

The Calgary Stampede and Exhibition

The Calgary Stampede and Exhibition is rich in tradition and it is also known for the cowboy atmosphere that takes over the city, everybody gets out the cowboy boots and Stetsons for the 10-11 days of good fun. This year (2006) it starts with the Calgary Stampede Parade on July 7th. Calgary's dedicated volunteers and community supporters present the world's largest western parade as the "Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth" kick-off to the over 350,000 on-route spectators and a global television audience.

In 1912 the great Stampede was born from the vision of Guy Weadick. Guy was a famous working cowboy and vaudeville entertainer featured in the traveling wild-west shows that were popular world-wide in the early 1900s. He was a man with a dream of celebrating the romance of the old west. The Stampede we enjoy today has evolved from Guy's vision. He was successful because he understood that as much as things change, we need to believe in the way things were. Every year, the Stampede reminds us that Guy was right; fundamentally we believe in the same western values today as our grandparents did in 1912.

In the early 1920, the Exhibition part was added to the Stampede, giving western farmers and ranchers a showplace for their horses and cattle. This too was later expanded to take in all farm livestock, whether two-legged or four. This year, 2006, the agricultural portion of the Exhibition has been tagged "Ag-tivity Day in the City" to help celebrate Alberta agriculture. Cattle, canola, chicken and even egg producers will be on hand. You'll see beef on the hoof, enjoy some Alberta Beef and you can grab a "I Love Alberta Beef" bumper sticker. That should impress the folks back in Long Island, although perhaps you should exercise discretion in displaying in Texas cattle country!

Every year there are hundreds of thousands of tourists from around the world who come just for the Stampeded and Exhibition. Among those visitors are a number of RV Caravans that wind their way north from the USA on the long drive to Alaska. Some of these caravans have over a hundred units of every shape and size and their tour is timed to arrive in Calgary the day before the Parade which is always on a Friday and stay over the weekend, leaving on their trek Monday morning.

A highlight of the show is of course the Rodeo. The Calgary Stampede's rodeo pays out some of the biggest prize money in the sport, always attracts the best riders and ropers from around the world and many of it's winners have gone on to win the National Finals Rodeo in the fall.

Like any sport, rodeo has its fair share of spills and thrills, talented athletes and unsung heroes. Besides the saddle and bareback riding events, the bull riding is always a big attraction. Ladies have barrel racing competitions. For comic relief (except for the contestants) there's a wild cow milking event. Every evening there are the chuckwagon races, followed by the Grandstand Show.

In case you are in the dark about rodeos, here is a little "Rodeo 101". There are two main categories of events, bucking and timed. Bucking is where most of the thrills, spills and crashes occur. Bucking events cover bareback and saddle bronc riding and bull riding. In all three events, cowboys hang on for dear life while trying to control the movements of their animal and themselves. Incidentally, the "spurs" the contestants were are nothing more than a smooth disc and have no effect on the animal. They wear them because the rider is judged on the smoothness of his ride and his spurring technique while he holds on to a saddle or rope with one hand. These account for half his points, the other half is awarded by how hard the horse or bull tried to buck him off. To complete the ride he must stay on for 8 seconds; that's a long time of the back of a bucking horse or bull.

Barrel Racing, Steer Wrestling and tie-down roping are the timed events at rodeos. Steer wrestling and tie-down roping are both inspired by real work done everyday on the ranch. In steer wrestling, a hazed (slapped on the butt with a straw hat) steer is released from it's pen. When it reached the end of its head start, a breakaway cord automatically releases the barrier rope in front of the cowboy, allowing him to race after the steer on his horse. He eased down the right side of his horse, reaching for the steer. After he has grasped the horns, he leaves his horse (who's in a full gallop) and digs his heels into the ground to slow the animal. Using leverage and the momentum of the moving steer, the steer wrestler rolls the animal onto its side.

Being quick and accurate with a rope aren't the only requirements in Tie-down Roping (also called Calf Roping but they are big calves!). A successful roper must also be an experienced horseman and a fast sprinter. After roping (throwing a lasso, again at a full gallop - every rodeo event is done at a full gallop!) the tie-down, the cowboy quickly dismounts while his horse backs up just enough to keep tension on the rope, runs to the animal, lifts and lays it on its side and ties any three legs together. Once he completes his tie, he remounts his horse and allows slack in the lasso rope, the animal must remain tied for six seconds. It is important to note that contestants are fined for any unnecessary roughness.

For the final timed event, Barrel Racing, female contestants must circle three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern. Rider or horse can move a barrel, but is assessed a five-second penalty if either knocks the barrel over. The fastest time wins in this extremely athletic event for both horse and rider.

The Chuckwagon Races were taken from the actual cattle drives, when the wagon would be loaded up, the tent taken down and the cook would drive his team up ahead of the drive to where the herd would be held overnight. Sometimes there would be two or three ranches driving together. The cooks would race each other to get the best spot to set up camp. The Chuckwagon Races at the Stampede are billed as "The Half Mile of Hell". Each chuckwagon has its driver, a team of four horses and four outriders (cowboys riding their horses.) That's four wagons, four drivers, 16 horses and sixteen outriders all vying for the same space next to the rail while racing at a full gallop around a half mile track. There's a very loud air horn blowing to start the race, there's an announcer going nuts over the PA system as he calls the race, the wagons and horses are thundering around the track and the crowd's on its feet at the finish screaming their heads off. Sound crazy? Yes. Exciting? You have to see it to believe it. There's nothing else like it. And in five minutes, the next race is off and running and it starts all over again!

There are people who travel thousands of miles every year to take in "The Greatest Show Outdoor Show on Earth". They'll book their rooms for next year before they leave for home this year. It's enthusiasts like these, from far and near, that continue to make the Calgary Stampede and Exhibition what it is.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

So You Wanna Be a Cowgirl?

Seems there's a resurgence of interest in all things Western, probably because we love the idea of living wild and free. The West is unimaginably beautiful - God's Country they call it out here in Colorado. A few years ago I quit my job, sold everything and moved here to work outside. I'd hardly call myself a cowgirl, but it sure is fun playing at one.

There's nothing comparable to waking up to the Sangre de Cristo mountains turning purple, pink, then white in the morning sun. From my bedroom (which is also my living room, kitchen and office) I can see a herd of 60-some horses, heading down from the trees where they huddled the night before, and looking for hay. I'll pull on my jeans (have to go out anyway, to use the "facilities" such as they are) and head down to the pasture. Some days, a bunch of them will just walk up to me like puppy dogs, sniffing me and covering my face with their warm, sweet breath. Horses transmit amazing power to me somehow and I'm awed and humbled by them. I'm also grateful to be able to make a living hanging around them.

I'm not a real cowgirl, mind you. Transplanted from Jersey, I'm just a city girl lucky enough to have shucked everything to play outside. Sure I get knee high in it; I tack and ride them and help with round up and horse chores but the cowboys tolerate me. They know I'm just a dude (city slicker) and pretty harmless. Cowboys can be very sexy and alluring in the short run but believe me, when you work a ranch they expect you to haul your own saddle, and carry your weight in every way. They sure don't cotton to "helpless" out here.

I was a lawyer and a teacher; I've raised three boys by myself. Part of this new beginning is just detoxing from my stress-filled existence. You may need to do the same thing. You might not be able to transform your whole lifestyle but heck, you could come play cowgirl for a week or so, right? Maybe it's time to "cowgirl up" honey, and change your perspective on life a little.

Sometimes folks can't make these kind of changes until the kids are gone and "work" is over. Pre-tirement is a great chance to change your life completely. Did you know that most folks "retire" several times and often continue working part time, full time, in completely new environments and careers. And the truth is, it's never too late to live out your childhood dreams. I was 48 years old when I headed west to work on a ranch. The change was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas

It's amazing that the small community of Douglas, Wyoming hosts the State Fair each year in mid August. This town usually contains only 5,000 people, but when fairtime rolls around that number swells. An interesting feature is the North Platte River which happens to run through the town and provides a great place for visitors to picnic or simply get out the fishing pole. Visitors to the fair can find free parking south of the grounds on Brownfield Road.

The fair has recently undergone a bit of a remodeling and in the 2006 state fair new facilities were unveiled. They have a much larger livestock pavilion, a multipurpose livestock exposition building, the special show center, and a multi-purpose swine show facility.

At the state fair you can find lots of exhibits including a hobby collection of sheep exhibits, antique machinery contest, professional arts classes, quilting contests, goat shows, and the biggest vegetables that can be found for miles around Douglas.

Some fun competitions to watch are the Jack Russell Terrier Races and the Pigs 'n Mud Wrestling in the Grandstand. The Rubber Chicken Race puts a unique perspective on the relay race. Teams of 3 to 5 people will relay a rubber chicken to each other after racing a lap on a specific vehicle. The first lap is done on saddled horseback, the second on bare horseback; the third on a bicycle, the fourth on a 4-wheeler, and the last is done by a team of two, with one person being pushed to the finish line in a wheelbarrow.

Comedy in all its varied forms is present at the fair as well. You can watch free shows by comedic magicians, a funny Hypnotist, a clown, and there is even an A Capela comedy singing group.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

So You Wanna Be a Cowgirl?

Seems there's a resurgence of interest in all things Western, probably because we love the idea of living wild and free. The West is unimaginably beautiful - God's Country they call it out here in Colorado. A few years ago I quit my job, sold everything and moved here to work outside. I'd hardly call myself a cowgirl, but it sure is fun playing at one.

There's nothing comparable to waking up to the Sangre de Cristo mountains turning purple, pink, then white in the morning sun. From my bedroom (which is also my living room, kitchen and office) I can see a herd of 60-some horses, heading down from the trees where they huddled the night before, and looking for hay. I'll pull on my jeans (have to go out anyway, to use the "facilities" such as they are) and head down to the pasture. Some days, a bunch of them will just walk up to me like puppy dogs, sniffing me and covering my face with their warm, sweet breath. Horses transmit amazing power to me somehow and I'm awed and humbled by them. I'm also grateful to be able to make a living hanging around them.

I'm not a real cowgirl, mind you. Transplanted from Jersey, I'm just a city girl lucky enough to have shucked everything to play outside. Sure I get knee high in it; I tack and ride them and help with round up and horse chores but the cowboys tolerate me. They know I'm just a dude (city slicker) and pretty harmless. Cowboys can be very sexy and alluring in the short run but believe me, when you work a ranch they expect you to haul your own saddle, and carry your weight in every way. They sure don't cotton to "helpless" out here.

I was a lawyer and a teacher; I've raised three boys by myself. Part of this new beginning is just detoxing from my stress-filled existence. You may need to do the same thing. You might not be able to transform your whole lifestyle but heck, you could come play cowgirl for a week or so, right? Maybe it's time to "cowgirl up" honey, and change your perspective on life a little.

Sometimes folks can't make these kind of changes until the kids are gone and "work" is over. Pre-tirement is a great chance to change your life completely. Did you know that most folks "retire" several times and often continue working part time, full time, in completely new environments and careers. And the truth is, it's never too late to live out your childhood dreams. I was 48 years old when I headed west to work on a ranch. The change was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

So You Wanna Be a Cowgirl?

Seems there's a resurgence of interest in all things Western, probably because we love the idea of living wild and free. The West is unimaginably beautiful - God's Country they call it out here in Colorado. A few years ago I quit my job, sold everything and moved here to work outside. I'd hardly call myself a cowgirl, but it sure is fun playing at one.

There's nothing comparable to waking up to the Sangre de Cristo mountains turning purple, pink, then white in the morning sun. From my bedroom (which is also my living room, kitchen and office) I can see a herd of 60-some horses, heading down from the trees where they huddled the night before, and looking for hay. I'll pull on my jeans (have to go out anyway, to use the "facilities" such as they are) and head down to the pasture. Some days, a bunch of them will just walk up to me like puppy dogs, sniffing me and covering my face with their warm, sweet breath. Horses transmit amazing power to me somehow and I'm awed and humbled by them. I'm also grateful to be able to make a living hanging around them.

I'm not a real cowgirl, mind you. Transplanted from Jersey, I'm just a city girl lucky enough to have shucked everything to play outside. Sure I get knee high in it; I tack and ride them and help with round up and horse chores but the cowboys tolerate me. They know I'm just a dude (city slicker) and pretty harmless. Cowboys can be very sexy and alluring in the short run but believe me, when you work a ranch they expect you to haul your own saddle, and carry your weight in every way. They sure don't cotton to "helpless" out here.

I was a lawyer and a teacher; I've raised three boys by myself. Part of this new beginning is just detoxing from my stress-filled existence. You may need to do the same thing. You might not be able to transform your whole lifestyle but heck, you could come play cowgirl for a week or so, right? Maybe it's time to "cowgirl up" honey, and change your perspective on life a little.

Sometimes folks can't make these kind of changes until the kids are gone and "work" is over. Pre-tirement is a great chance to change your life completely. Did you know that most folks "retire" several times and often continue working part time, full time, in completely new environments and careers. And the truth is, it's never too late to live out your childhood dreams. I was 48 years old when I headed west to work on a ranch. The change was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

Colorado State Fair and Rodeos

In Pueblo, Colorado there is a State Fair that is filled with Cowboys, and Cowgirls and celebrates Mexican culture in Rodeos and an Annual Fiesta Day. This fair is held every year from late August to early September. Visitors to the fair come to check out the food, and the music and the broncin' bucks.

This is a Rodeo Fair with both the PRCA and the Charreada Rodeo. At the PRCA you'll sit on the edge of your seats watching rope tricks, target shooting from a racing horse and the grittiest rodeo riders around. The Charreada has some tough competition but has some scary moments with bull riding and bull tailing in which the charro has to grab the tail of the bull!

There is also the Truck and Tractor Pullers Association Competition with eight classes of competition from the econo-modified small block tractor to the Limited Diesel Tractor. It is extra to see this competition but well worth it for the mud and the glory.

The Pepsi Stage in Family Park is free and open to all fairgoers who are looking for a little entertainment while they relax their feet and enjoy the cool grass and maybe eat something. It along with the Comcast Amphitheatre make great arenas for local Colorado musicians and talent to show off their skills.

For the past thirteen years the fair has been hosting Fiesta Day, a chance to celebrate Hispanic and Mexican food, fun and culture at the fair. It usually goes late, so be sure you can make past midnight without turning into a pumpkin or more likely falling asleep on the drive home!

If you love parades this fair has three of them. The Fiesta Parade is a highlight of the Fiesta Day celebrations with Mexican bands and the traditional Mariachi Mass before the parade. The Kids Parade is just for kids and is filled with kids too; you can come see kids dressed up in their best and most unique costumes as they compete for prizes based on creativity. The State Fair Parade follows a different theme each year and is held towards the beginning of the fair.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas

It's amazing that the small community of Douglas, Wyoming hosts the State Fair each year in mid August. This town usually contains only 5,000 people, but when fairtime rolls around that number swells. An interesting feature is the North Platte River which happens to run through the town and provides a great place for visitors to picnic or simply get out the fishing pole. Visitors to the fair can find free parking south of the grounds on Brownfield Road.

The fair has recently undergone a bit of a remodeling and in the 2006 state fair new facilities were unveiled. They have a much larger livestock pavilion, a multipurpose livestock exposition building, the special show center, and a multi-purpose swine show facility.

At the state fair you can find lots of exhibits including a hobby collection of sheep exhibits, antique machinery contest, professional arts classes, quilting contests, goat shows, and the biggest vegetables that can be found for miles around Douglas.

Some fun competitions to watch are the Jack Russell Terrier Races and the Pigs 'n Mud Wrestling in the Grandstand. The Rubber Chicken Race puts a unique perspective on the relay race. Teams of 3 to 5 people will relay a rubber chicken to each other after racing a lap on a specific vehicle. The first lap is done on saddled horseback, the second on bare horseback; the third on a bicycle, the fourth on a 4-wheeler, and the last is done by a team of two, with one person being pushed to the finish line in a wheelbarrow.

Comedy in all its varied forms is present at the fair as well. You can watch free shows by comedic magicians, a funny Hypnotist, a clown, and there is even an A Capela comedy singing group.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas   

Colorado State Fair and Rodeos

In Pueblo, Colorado there is a State Fair that is filled with Cowboys, and Cowgirls and celebrates Mexican culture in Rodeos and an Annual Fiesta Day. This fair is held every year from late August to early September. Visitors to the fair come to check out the food, and the music and the broncin' bucks.

This is a Rodeo Fair with both the PRCA and the Charreada Rodeo. At the PRCA you'll sit on the edge of your seats watching rope tricks, target shooting from a racing horse and the grittiest rodeo riders around. The Charreada has some tough competition but has some scary moments with bull riding and bull tailing in which the charro has to grab the tail of the bull!

There is also the Truck and Tractor Pullers Association Competition with eight classes of competition from the econo-modified small block tractor to the Limited Diesel Tractor. It is extra to see this competition but well worth it for the mud and the glory.

The Pepsi Stage in Family Park is free and open to all fairgoers who are looking for a little entertainment while they relax their feet and enjoy the cool grass and maybe eat something. It along with the Comcast Amphitheatre make great arenas for local Colorado musicians and talent to show off their skills.

For the past thirteen years the fair has been hosting Fiesta Day, a chance to celebrate Hispanic and Mexican food, fun and culture at the fair. It usually goes late, so be sure you can make past midnight without turning into a pumpkin or more likely falling asleep on the drive home!

If you love parades this fair has three of them. The Fiesta Parade is a highlight of the Fiesta Day celebrations with Mexican bands and the traditional Mariachi Mass before the parade. The Kids Parade is just for kids and is filled with kids too; you can come see kids dressed up in their best and most unique costumes as they compete for prizes based on creativity. The State Fair Parade follows a different theme each year and is held towards the beginning of the fair.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo in Douglas