While they have been through a difficult season, the Drumheller Stampede and Ag Society is continuing to thrive and appear to be getting stronger.
The Ag Society has been in a state of flux over the past couple seasons, with changes to the executive and the loss of the WPCA. Mike Hansen, president of the Drumheller and District Ag Society, said it has been a lot of work to have the community take a second look and build trust.
“I think we have made good progress,” said Hansen.
While it appeared to be a blow to lose the chucks, they have soldiered on.
“The chuckwagons were here for eleven years, which is really good for a lot of things. Often, events have a lifespan of about six years,” said Hansen.
While it wasn’t WPCA, the Ag Society brought in the Alberta Pony Chuckwagon Association and had a successful show. Hansen said they are already in the planning stages for next year’s show. He says the entertainment value of the Pony Chuckwagon and Chariots is better with more close exciting finishes.
“The guys want to come back, they really enjoyed it,” said Hansen.
He said they are aiming for a four-day show on the August Long Weekend, and they are looking at more than 50 wagons coming for the event. A tarp auction allowing locals to get in on the action to support drivers is slated for March 16.
While the Ag Society is excited about bringing the pony chucks, they are certainly not a one trick pony.
The Society is continuing to work with the IMCA to bring car racing to the track. Other racing outfits are also interested in coming to Drumheller.
Last year they were able to get the Drumheller Demolition Derby off the ground, although it was not the success they hoped it would be. They are already looking at how to rebuild the famous Drumheller event.
Other regular Drumheller events continue on, including the Christmas Bazaar, which enjoyed its third year. “It will definitely carry on,” said Hansen.
To build support for their events, they have begun themed dinner events on a regular basis. On February 9, they brought the Chevelles to the Stampede barn for a concert to help raise funds for their events.
There are all kinds of opportunities for those interested to get involved with the Drumheller and District Ag Society. For more information, call 403-823-9339.
