Western Tradition and Community Pride Shine Bright at British Columbia’s Biggest Rodeo

Cloverdale County Fair is the biggest event in British Columbia and has been an annual event that started almost 150 years ago in 1888. The rodeo made its debut near the end of World War II in 1945 and has become one of the most anticipated family events in Western Canada.

The rodeo itself only includes the three rough stock events and barrel racing. It is an invitational set up that is divided into two pools. The highest money winners after two rounds move on to a showdown for a shot at a $25,000 payout.

The bull riders ended up having the best day as only two covered their bulls in the four-man round, meaning they split the entire pot. Beau Gardner won over $30,000 with an 89-point ride while Jordan Hansen took home $19,500 for his second place finish.

Kade Berry, the little brother of National Finals Rodeo qualifier Leighton Berry, beat out an incredibly tough field in the bareback riding. He scored an 89-point ride to just barely beat Orin Larson by half of a point. There was only a two point separation between first and fourth place.

In the saddle bronc riding, Canadian cowboy Logan Hay scored over 90 points to take home the win over Zeke Thurston. The rough stock riders didn't disappoint as they put on an absolute show for the fans and spectators.

The ladies of the event had quite a horse race. Brooke Wills was only .04 seconds behind the champion, Kyla Simmons. With $50,000 in each event, just in the final round, it is safe to say the trip to Canada is more than worth it.

Over 70,000 people make it in attendance to the fair and rodeo. Each year it seems competition gets tougher and tougher. This is definitely an event you want to get invited to as a competitor.

Photo Courtesy of Hillary Maybery Photography