Richer Rough Stock Rodeo returns

The Richer Rough Stock Rodeo is back from Aug. 8 to 10, ready for more than 12,000 visitors for its 11th year along with new buckles for bull riders.

“Every year, when I climb up that announcer’s tower, I take a moment to look around. Every year, I’m in awe with the people I see to come out and support us,” said Pat Stolwyk, president of the rodeo committee. “It chokes me up.”

This year, there is a new belt buckle for the bull riding competitors.

“Money means nothing. That buckle means everything,” said Stolwyk. “It’ll be a big deal for the cowboys. I think our fans will feel it when the time comes.”

The parade will start at 10 a.m., and over 40 businesses will be in it.

The rodeo also features Gymkhana, live music, and more competitions, but bull riding is on the main events.

“To me rodeo means family, and good people,” said Stolwyk. “A place to call home.”

Last year they had over 100 volunteers, and this year it’s around 145 people from all over Southeast Manitoba helping with the event.

“My main objective was to create an atmosphere that our families—no matter where they are—would come back to and plan their summers around,” he said. “That has come to reality now.”