The annual Bonnyville Pro-Rodeo and WPCA races delighted locals and visitors alike with an extended three-day event this year, filled with chuckwagon races, festivities, and live entertainment. Traditionally held over two days, this year’s event spanned from Thursday, June 6th to Sunday, June 9th.
The festivities kicked off on Thursday evening with the WPCA races at 6 p.m., followed by the Pro-Rodeo.
Friday’s events began earlier in the day with the annual chillie cook-off, hosted by the Bonnyville Chamber of Commerce. From noon to 2 p.m., participants showcased their best chillie recipes, despite the wind and rain, the cook-off was a hit, raising money for the Bonnyville SPCA. These are the winners, Team Spirit went to the Town of Bonnyville, Hot Stuff went to Casino Dene, Most Unusual went to Cashco Financial, tastiest to MR MIKES, People’s Choice to CNRL, and “Sense”ational Champion went to Casino Dene. As evening approached, the WPCA races commenced at 6 p.m., followed by another rodeo performance. The night concluded with a dance featuring live music from the Mainstreet Band.
Saturday started with a pancake breakfast at the rodeo grounds from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., and the rodeo kicked off at 1 p.m., offering more excitement. The WPCA Races on Saturday started at 6 p.m., and the evening ended with a dance at 9 p.m. featuring live music by Fox & Hounds with Morgan Klaiber.
The weekend wrapped up on Sunday with the final WPCA races at 2 p.m. Winners from the WPCA races were dash winner Luke Tournier and outriders Rory Gervais and Quaid Tournier. Sunday’s results saw the fastest time clocked by Jamie Laboucane’s team, followed closely by dash winner Luke Tournier, Chance Flad, Dustin Gorst, and Chad Fike. Jamie Laboucane’s impressive performance also ensured he continues to lead the World Standings after the first two shows.
