A Big Valley barrel racer is Stampede bound after her first year on the professional circuit.
On Wednesday, April 11 the Calgary Stampede unveiled its list of competitors for the 2018 rodeo. On the list are stalwarts such as Carbon’s bareback rider Cole Goodine and decorated saddle bronc rider Zeke Thurston of Big Valley. Count Diane Skocdopole on the list as well.
“The way they have the Stampede set up now is they take four Canadians from the barrel standings so you have to have a pretty outstanding year to get in on the Canadian side,” Skocdopole tells the Mail.
She has been riding for many years but last season was the first time that she took out her professional card and rode in 38 events last season. She had a great year, and in fact was named Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) Rookie of the Year.
She had wins in Camrose, Innisfail, La Crete and Pincher Creek and some second place finishes to earn her a spot. At the Canadian Finals Rodeo, she won the Day One Performance. She ended up in fifth place overall, based on money earned.
The Stampede takes only the top four Canadian riders, however, one of her competitors was under 18 and not eligible to ride in the Stampede
“It’s really exciting, especially because it seems to be an exclusive thing for the Canadian girls to get in anymore,” she said.
