The Alberta High School Rodeo Association hosted a Junior High Rodeo on May 5, and a High School Rodeo on May 6-7 for District 2 in Vermilion. This was the first of three spring events and the youth were eager to be out riding in the warm weather.
Hadley Schiffner, a 12-year-old competitor from Strathmore is in her second year of junior high rodeo and said, “Breakaway roping is my favourite because in barrel racing you can buy an expensive horse and win, but for breakaway, you have to know how to do it properly. Not stressing helps you to have a good run.”
A large group of participants all agreed that one of the great joys of rodeo is getting to spend a lot of time with their horses. The competition is very friendly, and they were thrilled to spend time with one another as the rodeos are the only times in the year they get to see each other.
Some of them pointed out the challenges of travelling to compete in different arenas. For example, they said for some of the events such as team roping, the arenas aren’t always wide enough.
Cruz Lillico from Stettler is in his second year of junior high competitions but has been in rodeo for seven years. He normally team ropes, but opted to compete in breakaway roping this time.
“My dad has been to the CFR. I enjoy the competition and have just always had a rope in my hand,” said Lillico.
Memphis Jones from Byemoor is in his first year of junior high and has been competing for about 6 years. He said his favourite event is team roping, but he entered in breakaway and goat tying as well.
“We have a ranch and farm and I’ve always liked roping. The rodeo is fun; my friends are here. It’s a lifestyle,” said Jones.
The Alberta Junior High Finals will take place in Rimbey May 26 – 28, and the Alberta High School Finals will take place June 1 – 4 in Stettler.
