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Ashcroft Rodeo Weekend Fun
May 2nd, 2007 Ashcroft Rodeo (Stampede) Yeehah – and – Giddy up !! Experience the ‘wild west’ – at a BC Rodeo event. Rodeos are held throughout the Gold Country region, including the long popular event held every June, in Ashcroft, BC. Ashcroft’s rodeo history begins in 1891, when the first ‘race meet’ was held in connection with the annual Fair. Participants came from far and wide, to compete in the races and bronco events held on the stony, dry downtown streets of the village. There were no corrals; and finesse was not the greatest importance – endurance and speed across the finish line won the prize. Early Ashcroft ‘Rodeos’ were held over 2 days, and included events of fun for the whole family. Activities such as foot races, football, lacrosse, food contests – and occasionally even included a circus. Since people came from great distance; holding the event for several days meant a worthwhile trip for the participants, and a profitable time for local businesses. Eventually, the rodeo folks and townspeople agreed that the wild happenings of Rodeo needed to be moved from the downtown streets. 1923 saw the building of a bucking corral and soft dirt race track atop the sandhill overlooking Ashcroft. The Rodeo location changed several times over the following years, and eventually found its home at the current Rodeo Grounds, at the northern tip of Ashcroft on Hwy 97C. Today, the Ashcroft Rodeo remains one of the most popular regional events. Riders and spectators flock to this unique desert location for a few days of fun and wild riding. The weekend begins with a delicious pancake breakfast, served by the local Lions Club. Festivities then continue with a colourful Parade, hosting entries from throughout the province. Bands, colourful floats and horse-back riders; clowns and candy make up the fun for ‘kids of all ages’. The businesses join in the spirit of rodeo with western decorations and special downtown happenings. Then, it’s off to the Rodeo grounds for two days of thrilling western action. The Ashcroft Rodeo is a BCRA sanctioned event which includes Bareback Bronc, Saddle Bronc and Bull Riding; judged on style, skill and spurring. Timed events include Steer Wrestling, Calf Roping, Team Roping and Barrel Racing. Throughout the weekend, you’ll enjoy food, entertainment, beer gardens, western booths, kid’s events, and more fun than a ‘barrel of ponies’. Saturday evening is the time to kick up your heels, at the Rodeo Dance. Live entertainment and the spirit of wild west, sand and sage fun create a great time for all. First timer, or regular rodeo fan - you’ll want to visit Ashcroft on the third weekend in June for the ‘best in the west’ desert Rodeo. See You Here !
Contact Information
Name:	Village of Ashcroft
Address:	Box 129 Ashcroft, BC, CA V0K 1A0
Phone:	250-453-9161
Email:	admin@village.ashcroft.bc.ca
Web Site:	www.village.ashcroft.bc.ca

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