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Winnipeg Free Press
3 days ago
- Winnipeg Free Press
Animal abuse and rodeos
Opinion Rodeo season is upon us, and last week the nation's attention was focused on the Calgary Stampede. It didn't take long for animal welfare concerns to rise to the forefront, starting with the collapse of a horse during the opening Stampede Parade, and ending with the death of Rider, a horse participating in the chuckwagon races. Calgary Stampede CEO Joel Cowley called it 'an unfortunate incident.' The Vancouver Humane Society has been collecting statistics on animal deaths at the Calgary Stampede since 1986. The total is 110, with 2024 being one of the deadliest rodeos in Stampede history. Last year, four animals died: a steer used in steer wrestling and three horses used in chuckwagon racing. Chuckwagon racing is one of the deadliest rodeo events for horses, pushing them beyond their limits at tight speeds in tight spaces. This leads to tragic outcomes such as broken legs, heart failure, and fatal collisions. Other rodeo events, such as bronc/bull riding, animal scrambles, team roping, and wild horse/pony races, are also outdated and cruel modes of using animals as entertainment, as they cause significant mental and physical distress to the animals involved. Stock animals like calves and steers used in these events are often roped, chased, roughly handled, and extensively practised on even before entering a rodeo event. Negative reinforcement training methods such as electric shocks and flank straps are commonly used to train animals such as bulls to buck as violently as possible, with no reprieve until the desired behaviour is attained. The physical pain and immense fear that many animals experience in these events does not justify the entertainment value of the spectacle. While the Calgary Stampede may be the most nationally visible example of the unnecessary and cruel exploitation of animals for rodeo entertainment purposes, Manitoba has its own rodeo circuit. In addition to annual events in Morris and Selkirk, the Heartland Rodeo Association also travels to towns throughout Manitoba over the summer months. Event organizers and supporters often make the case for these rodeo events as supporting rural roots and traditions, citing concerns are raised by a largely urban population that doesn't understand rural life and values. Their position is that events such as animal scrambles, where youth chase animals around a loud crowded arena in an attempt to remove a halter from the animal's neck, provide an educational opportunity for urban dwellers on the day-to-day nature of farm life. However, this approach shows little regard for the physical and mental distress suffered by the animals involved. Framing the issue as simply a difference in values between urban and rural is a red herring. Whether one lives on a farm or in a condo, the majority of people do not want to see harm come to an animal. In fact, most Manitobans would agree that compassion and empathy for all living beings are not rural or urban considerations; they're human values. As we grow in our understanding of animals, many people are choosing to support events that celebrate them with care and compassion. In 2022, polling showed that 67 per cent of Canadians were against using animals in rodeos, with this number growing as public education on rodeos becomes more readily available. Moving away from rodeo events that cause mental and physical distress and suffering gives us the chance to create new traditions that honour animals without causing them stress or harm. By embracing humane alternatives, we can enjoy meaningful experiences that reflect our values of empathy and respect. Many agricultural fairs and events throughout the province have family friendly activities that do not harm animals or cause them distress. The midway, carnival games, vendor markets, mud bogging, tractor and machinery displays, live music, strongman competitions, bouncy castles, dog agility and flying disc displays, face painting, chainsaw carving, clowns, and parades are all more humane alternatives. It's time to move toward rodeo traditions that honour animals rather than placing them at risk. Krista Boryskavich is the director of animal advocacy and legal and government affairs at the Winnipeg Humane Society.
CBC
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CBC
Stampede will 'evaluate' which artists it books for free shows amid crowd safety concerns
Social Sharing The Calgary Stampede will be "evaluating" which artists it books for free concerts at the Coca-Cola Stage following concerns around overcrowding. The stage, which offers free outdoor concerts headlined by up-and-coming local artists and international stars, was subject to questions around its choice of talent when a crowd crush reportedly occurred during a performance by hip-hop superstar Don Toliver on July 8. During a media availability on Sunday, Calgary Stampede CEO Joel Cowley said the safety of attendees is "at the very, very top of our list" as the organization moves forward. "Going into 2026, one of our focal points will be continuing to evolve the Coke Stage, because we want our guests there to be comfortable, and feel safe and secure," he said. Cowley pointed to two shows in particular — those headlined by Toliver and R&B singer Khalid — as drawing the largest crowds. "We had two very large, high-volume nights this last week, and we know that some of our guests did not feel comfortable, so we will continue to evaluate that," he said. Kerrie Blizard, the Calgary Stampede's director of public safety, said during a media availability last week following the Toliver concert that she thought it "was a great success" based on attendance and audience feedback. WATCH: Stampede incidents lead to safety concerns: Three stabbings and reported crowd crushing in one night at the Calgary Stampede 5 days ago Duration 2:07 Police say multiple assaults on the midway Tuesday night at the Calgary Stampede are not believed to be random, but no suspects have been arrested. Across the grounds, concertgoers recount feelings of being crushed and trapped in the audience at a concert by American rapper Don Toliver. The CBC's Acton Clarkin reports. Cowley pointed to preparations put in place ahead of those concerts, including alternate viewing locations being set up with livestreams of the shows — which he acknowledged were poorly attended by concertgoers — and collaborations with the Calgary Police Service, which put out a statement ahead of the Toliver concert to offer safety tips. "We also have to evaluate which artists we place on that stage," he said. "We know these high-demand artists, those that draw a younger crowd, tend to be a little less ruly than, say, a classic rock band that goes there, and so all of those things will be evaluated." Admission to concerts at the Coca-Cola Stage are included with admission to the Calgary Stampede. There are no age restrictions or attendance limits. Cowley said the organization is looking at adding "additional barriers" to prevent overcrowding toward the front of the stage. He said Stampede staffers will be "travelling to another event" to observe safety measures in place there. "We pride ourselves on being a music festival," he said, pointing to the over 100 acts that took the stage across the Stampede's three major concert venues: the indoor Big Four Roadhouse, Nashville North party tent and Coca-Cola Stage. "There are people who come to Calgary during these 10 days with the sole intent of watching [concerts]," Cowley said. "It's a way you can draw a very diverse audience and share our Western hospitality." Attendance high, but falls short of last year's record According to the Calgary Stampede, 1,470,288 people visited Stampede Park over the course of this year's event. The figure falls short of the attendance record set in 2024 — 1,477,953 visitors — but earns the 113th Calgary Stampede the title of second-most-attended. Stuart O'Connor, president and chair of the Calgary Stampede board, said those numbers reflect the diverse nature of the event. "No matter where you're coming from, and no matter what you're interested in, there is something for everyone during Stampede," he said. The most-attended day this year — and second-most-attended day in Stampede history — was Tuesday, July 8, which offered free admission early in the day, as well as being the date of the controversial Toliver concert. Cowley said the Stampede works to manage its growing crowd sizes in a variety of ways. "We know which days are gonna be more attractive to attend than others," he said. "Those free admission days, we know that we're going to get great attendance on those days," he continued. "The great thing about those is that we require those people to come in free early. They typically don't stay all day." Cowley said the demolition of the Scotiabank Saddledome, which he said happens "hopefully by 2030," will help the Stampede increase attendance and better accommodate larger crowds by adding 11 acres to the park.
CTV News
14-07-2025
- CTV News
Calgary Stampede attendance falls short of record
Overcrowding concerns, stabbings and an animal death among the challenges at this year's Stampede. Jordan Kanygin reports. The Calgary Stampede's all-time attendance record, set in 2024, still stands. According to data from officials on Monday, 121,704 people visited Stampede Park on Sunday, bringing the total attendance number for 2025 to 1,470,288. That's 7,665 fewer than last year. The 2025 edition of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth was marred by concerns over public safety and overcrowding after a violent altercation following a live performance on the Coke Stage. Three people were stabbed in the attack on July 9 and police are still looking for suspects. On Sunday, Calgary Stampede CEO Joel Cowley addressed the issue, saying that his team will better evaluate what acts will perform at the venue. 'We know these high demand artists, those that draw a younger crowd, tend to be a little ruly than, say, a classic rock band that goes there, so all those things will be evaluated.' Calgary Stampede attendance falls short of record On July 9, 2025, three people were stabbed on the Calgary Stampede Midway. Investigators linked the assault to a live performance at the Coke Stage that same night. He added the Calgary Police Service and Calgary Fire Department would be included in those discussions. Horse death on Saturday Rodeo action at the Calgary Stampede was not without tragedy after a chuckwagon horse was injured during the eighth heat of the Rangeland Derby on Saturday. The animal, with Chad Fike's team, needed to be euthanized after it broke its left front leg. Cowley said the action was the 'most humane' thing to do, but animal rights activists said the fact there was no news of the injury during the broadcast suggests the organization was not being transparent. 'They do not want the public to know that animals die regularly,' said Alexandra Pester, staff lawyer with Animal Justice. Calgary Stampede attendance falls short of record During the eighth heat of the Rangeland Derby on Saturday night, a horse with Chad Fike's team broke it's leg and the animal needed to be euthanized. (Supplied/Sportsnet) Nonetheless, Cowley said Sunday the event was success and visitors agreed. Officials say a poll of visitors said they were happy with this year's event and many felt they would come back again in the future. (With files from Jordan Kanygin)
Calgary Herald
14-07-2025
- Business
- Calgary Herald
Calgary Stampede's Weadickville riding into sunset
A sleek coffee-coloured house — the prize of winning a lottery — stood behind Stampede's entry gates, drawing scores of people on July 8, all eager to grab a look at what a stroke of luck can offer them. Article content Tucked behind the Stampede Rotary Dream Home, facing the innumerable rides, vendors and raffle stalls and standing in solitude, save for a few teenagers on their cellphones, was a relic representing the city's foundation. Article content Article content Article content A shack constructed from round and roughly hewn logs stood beside another structure with a white exterior made of lumber bearing the initials N.W.M.P. for the North-West Mounted Police. The agency, the predecessor of the RCMP, was the first among European settlers to set up shop in the region, paving the way for the creation of Calgary. Article content The area, now a shell of its former self, is named after Guy Weadick, one of the founders of Stampede. The space, built in the mid-20th century as a replica of the streetscape in 1912 and a callback to the festival's roots, has been a popular spot for Calgarians who would visit the place for its shooting range, ice cream shops, or for solace from the chaos of Stampede. Article content Article content Soon, however, that space will give way to a 13-storey, 320-unit hotel with sweeping views of downtown, 14,000 square feet of food and beverage offerings and a south-facing terrace with a whirlpool tub and activity pool. Article content The project came to life when Calgary Municipal and Land Corporation and Calgary Stampede struck a praetorship with hotelier Truman, which will develop the hotel by 2028. Article content As a result, the former NWMP Morley detachment will be disassembled, stored and reassembled at a later date and in a different location, according to Calgary Stampede CEO Joel Cowley.
CTV News
13-07-2025
- CTV News
‘I think it's Canada at its finest': Stampede wraps up blockbuster 2025 event
Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, walks on stage with Stampede Princess Breanna Correia as he attends the Calgary Stampede in Calgary, Alta., Friday, July 4, 2025. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh) If the Calgary Stampede was a baseball player, it would probably be Shohei Otani: all anyone wants to talk about is whether this year will break the record they set last year. Sunday morning, Stampede Chief Executive Officer Joel Cowley met the press and ran through a few numbers as he gave a post-mortem on the massive festival that was expected to draw upwards of 1.5 million visitors in 2025. 'I'll hit the first thing that's most on your minds right up front,' Cowley said. 'Are we going to break the attendance record? We very well may and we very well may not. It's that close to last year's attendance.' Saturday's attendance was 150, 974, bringing the total for the 2025 festival to 1,384,584, around 130,000 short of setting the record with Sunday's numbers still to come. Big crowds, big challenges Of course, the massive turnout in 2025 has produced its own set of challenges, most notably on Tuesday night, when three people were stabbed and a concert at the Coca-Cola Stage was packed on the hottest night of Stampede on a day that drew 193,000 visitors to the grounds. 'Bringing 1.4 million plus people to a common location over 10 days, is not without its challenges,' Cowley said, 'and as you're all aware, we had an assault in the park on Tuesday night.' 2025 Calgary Stampede Midway Views from the WestJet Sky Ride during the Calgary Stampede on Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta. (Photo by Amy Harris/Invision/AP) (Amy Harris/Amy Harris/Invision/AP) Targeted attack Cowley said police are still gathering video of the stabbing and have not made any arrests partly because the victims won't talk. 'Apparently, the victims are not cooperating with regard to identifying who the assailants were, because these were known parties,' he said. 'This was a targeted altercation. That's incredibly disheartening for an event like ours that is supposed to be a celebration that someone would come on grounds and look to do harm to others.' He said investigation was continuing into how the weapon managed to make its way onto the grounds. 'Did it come through our security? Was it acquired on grounds? It's really hard to make any adjustments, but I will tell you that our security protocols are evaluated daily,' he said. Calgary Stampede Coke Stage lineup The 2025 Calgary Stampede Coca-Cola Stage lineup will include Simple Plan, Arkells and Diplo. (File) Safe and secure 'Working with our security team, our providers in Calgary Police Service, we also know that going into 2026 one of our focal points will be continuing to evolve The Coke Stage -- because we want our guests there to be comfortable and feel safe and secure,' Cowley said. 'We had two very large, high volume nights this last week, and we know that some of our guests did not feel comfortable,' so we will continue to evaluate that that is at the very, very top of our list, and continue to evolve The Coke Stage presentation, whether that involve additional crowd control measures or evaluating which artists are placed on the Coke Stage." He said efforts are already underway to make the crowded Coke Stage feel safer for guests. Stampede Grounds, July 2, 2022 The grounds are being transformed to accommodate, food trucks, festival games and the midway rides as staff stay busy constructing them 'We set up an alternate viewing area in South Park, so just east of the dog bowl, there's a covered pavilion there,' Cowley said. 'And we put in a video screen, we put in a high quality sound system, and we had cold beverages there, where people could go there and watch if they weren't comfortable standing in the crowd and actually sit on the grass and watch. 'My understanding is that wasn't heavily used,' he added. 'The crowds that were going to the Coke Stage wanted to be there present at the Coke Stage. 'But drawing that number of people when we're really not sure how many are coming for a particular concert, that's really what we have to focus on, 'he said, 'whether that includes some additional barriers that that partition the crowd off so that they can't just freely crowd toward the front of the stage. 'And I actually have some of our team traveling to another event probably next week to see what they do with crowds -- but we also have to evaluate which artists we place on that stage, because we know these high demand artists, those that draw a younger crowd, tend to be a little less really than, say, a classic rock band that goes there.' Calgary Stampede fireworks display A visitor watches the fireworks display from the midway at the Calgary Stampede in Calgary, Saturday, July 9, 2016. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh) Visitors from away Cowley also broke down the demographics of Stampede, which are around 73 per cent local and 27 per cent visitors from out of town. He said Stampede 2025 drew quite a few Canadians who were looking for a quintessentially Canadian experience this year. 'Those are people who are coming here, who are booking hotel rooms. They're people who are coming here to eat in restaurants, and that's what generates economic impact, because that money is coming to Calgary that would not otherwise come to Calgary, if it weren't for the Calgary Stampede,' he said. Pierre Poilievre, July 5, 2025 Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre dropped by the Calgary Stampede Saturday to speak to the party faithful. (Photo: Darren Wright, CTV Calgary) 'Last year, nine per cent were from Alberta, but not Calgary, (while) 10 per cent were from Canada, but not Alberta. 'The remaining eight per cent were international. three per cent of those being U.S., and five per cent 'other.' He said Stampede 2025 drew quite a few Canadians who were looking for a quintessentially Canadian experience this year. 'It looks like Canadians were looking for a true Canadian experience in coming to the Calgary Stampede.' His favourite comment, he said, came from the Irish ambassador when he asked what he thought of the Calgary Stampede. 'His response was, 'I think it's Canada at its finest,'' Cowley said. With files from CTV's Jordan Kanygin
