Photos: A little rain could not dampen the enthusiasm of Brennan Finnimore, 7, (above) and Charlie Vredegoor, 8, after they took part in the wild pony race during the Hand Hills Lake Stampede on Sunday, May 31. Rural Alberta Report / C. Bowman

Despite rainy weather on both Saturday and Sunday, the 108th annual Hand Hills Lake Stampede drew competitors and spectators for a fun filled weekend of rodeo action, family events and a historic honour for one of Alberta’s most accomplished cowboys.

The annual event featured professional rodeo competition, chuckwagon and chariot racing, trade show activities, wild pony racing and a children’s obstacle course. 

Organizers adjusted some activities because of the wet conditions, moving an inflatable obstacle attraction indoors on Sunday to keep youngsters entertained despite the rain.

A major highlight came Sunday when Davey Shields Jr. was recognized following his induction into the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame. The Hand Hills Lake Stampede committee promoted the ceremony as a historic moment for the rodeo and the surrounding community.

Shields is one of the most decorated bronc riders in Canadian rodeo history. He is a four-time Calgary Stampede champion and three-time Canadian champion. Organizers noted his strong family ties to the Hand Hills area, where his grandparents helped raise him and where he developed a lasting connection to the local rodeo. His father, Dave Shields Sr., was also inducted into the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2009.

The weekend also marked the continuation of the Calgary Stampede Buckle Program at Hand Hills. 

The program awards a Calgary Stampede buckle to the season high-point winner in novice bareback and novice saddle bronc riding, providing an important incentive for up-and-coming rodeo competitors. Novice events were part of the rodeo schedule throughout the weekend.

Hand Hills remains one of Alberta’s longest-running rodeos, tracing its roots back more than a century. 

The event continues to attract professional competitors while maintaining its reputation as an up-close and personal rodeo experience that combines western heritage with family-friendly entertainment.