“This is probably going to be the best rodeo in BC this year.”
That is according to Kevin Cunin, the President of the Prince George Western Heritage Society.
He was talking about Rodeo Prince George 2023, which kicks off on Friday (June 16) and rides through Sunday.
Over the course of the weekend, between barrel racers and the rodeo, he said over 500 people will participate.
On top of the full rodeo, he said spectators can expect a fan zone where people can “meet some cowboys” and learn how to rope and barrel race, food and beer vendors, the Rocky Mountain Rangers, and a separate barn dance at the Roll-A-Dome with 2-step contests and live music from the Chris Goodwin Band.
“We have done a lot of work down on the ground to try and make the fan experience better,” Cunin added.
This includes additional seating, a 160-foot replay screen, and what he calls “the two best announcers in Western Canada.”
Last year, Cunin estimates around 3,000 people came out to watch the rodeo. He is hopeful for up to 5,000 this year.
The rodeo will also be raising money for Leukemia research in memory of Brittany Bourque, a local rodeo community member who recently passed away.
“She was genuinely good people. Her, her family, her husband, the kids, we just feel terrible for them. We want to do everything we can,” Cunin said.
One of the ways the community can show support is by wearing teal and burgundy – Brittany’s favourite colours – to Friday night’s barrel race.
For tickets and the full rodeo schedule, click here.
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