UPDATE – Smoke levels non-issue, WPCA races on in Bonnyville

UPDATE:

As of 6:25p, Friday, June 9th. The air quality index in Bonnyville acceptable for chuckwagon races tonight. As always – the WPCA’s website and Facebook page will hold up-to-date information regarding all race action this weekend should anything change.

The World Professional Chuckwagon Association’s Bonnyville Chuckwagon Championships could be cut short due to Wildfire smoke. 

If the air quality index ever surpasses 7 the WPCA says it will need to cancel/postpone the races. The General Manager for the WPCA Paul Ryneveld is hopeful but says he will have to take it day by day. 

“Right now, all systems are a go but at 8 the races would be canceled or postponed if we could until such time the air quality came down again.” 

Environment Canada issued multiple weather alerts, but Ryneveld says heat is not the main concern. Ryneveld says the air quality does not only affect the riders and the audience but also the horses. 

“7 to 8 is when it is unhealthy for anyone whether human or animal. The general rule of thumb is 8 you call it.” 

The WPCA’s website and Facebook will hold up-to-date information regarding if races have been canceled or delayed.