The inaugural First Nations Rodeo and Relay became a celebration of culture, community and future generations on Saturday night. More than 7,000 people attended the event at Stampede Park, which featured Indigenous athletes from across North America.
A Gathering Place for All
Long before the Calgary Stampede became synonymous with western heritage, First Nations communities gathered on the land now occupied by the Calgary Stampede grounds. Kristina Barnes, the Calgary Stampede’s director of agriculture and western events, emphasized the significance of the location. “This land has always been a gathering place, long before the Calgary Stampede was here. Our First Nations met at the elbow, and so we continue to have Stampede Park be a gathering place. This is a really unique opportunity for us to bring people together in celebration of sports and cultures.”
Preserving Traditions for Future Generations
For many in attendance, the inaugural event represented something larger — an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous culture, preserve traditions and inspire the next generation. Announcer Ray Champ noted that the event was about much more than competition. “It’s an opportunity for all Indigenous peoples to share some of our culture, our history, our legacy. It’s an opportunity to pass the traditions we hold dear to us down to the up-and-coming generations.”
For organizers, preserving those traditions also means ensuring they continue for generations to come. Bo Vashu, president of the Indian National Finals Rodeo, said youth development has long been a cornerstone of the organization. “Coming here creates a level of rodeo that helps our Native youth set goals to get to this level. It gives them so much to shoot for.”
Champions Crowned
The evening saw several champions crowned in various events. Ty Ferguson claimed the bareback riding title with an 80-point ride. Jackson Louis and Trey Camarillo won the team roping in 10.07 seconds. JC Hawk captured the ladies barrel racing title in 17.291 seconds. Jay Guerrero won tie-down roping in 11.44 seconds, and Tuck Johnson took the steer wrestling title with a time of 5.28 seconds. Justine Begay won the ladies breakaway competition in 2.37 seconds. No rider qualified in the bull riding competition.
For saddle bronc champion Alan Kole Gobert, the victory represented the realization of a childhood dream. “When I was a little kid, I was dreaming of this,” said Gobert, who posted a 79-point ride to win the event.
Relay Racing Highlights
In the evening’s main event, Chief Enoch Lapotac and rider Tyrone Jackson captured the relay racing title with a time of 3:10.99, earning an opportunity to compete at the Calgary Stampede next month. The relay racers entered the arena to cheers from the crowd, showcasing the speed and skill that define this traditional sport.
The event marked a significant step in recognizing and celebrating Indigenous contributions to rodeo and western heritage. With strong attendance and enthusiastic participation, the First Nations Rodeo and Relay has established itself as a promising new tradition at the Calgary Stampede.
