COLD LAKE - The Cold Lake Ag Society hosted the Les Trach Memorial Bullarama, which is the second performance of the 30th anniversary series. The event was held at the Cold Lake Exhibition Park on April 5.
The event hosted 21 bull riders and six junior steer riders. Tucker Wilson, the Director of Rodeo and Roughstock for the Cold Lake Ag Society, said it was a packed house for both the bull riding and the concert that was held after.
Rafael Parra won the event with an aggregate score of 154 points, and Francisco Costa took second place with a score of 83 points, ending a three year-long buck off streak.
Easton Lambert was the only junior steer rider to get a qualified ride with a winning score of 66.5.
“With a packed house, new champions, and signs of new beginnings for the Ag [Society], we also had some things come to an end. Dennis Dube, who has been part of the Ag Society since 1981, was honoured . . . with a lifetime membership . . . for all his decades of service to the community and the Ag [Society],” said Wilson.
Wilson said they also bid farewell to long-time sponsor Double D Contracting, a company started by Dennis Dube and passed on to his son Dean Dube, as they close their doors after more than five decades of operating in Cold Lake.
Rodeo entertainer Casey Wanchuk engaged the crowd throughout the evening, singing retro country songs with audience members, and handing out candy, merchandise, and tickets.
Wilson said Wanchuk was also tasked with awarding the event’s “Fan of the Night.” Wanchuk ended up not being able to choose between a group of three little girls who had made signs for him, so he awarded it to all three.
Wilson said he is honoured to serve the community as part of the large team required to host these events.
“Each Bullarama requires so much planning and coordination, not only for myself and the Rodeo and Roughstock Committee, but also the bar, kitchen, entertainment, arena, grants, and building committees. And without the efforts of the office staff, board of directors, volunteers, sponsors, veterinarians, and businesses the success of last night would not be possible. I am proud of what these events have become but I am more proud of the community minded individuals who find the time and come together to make this happen,” said Wilson.
