Foremost Rodeo and chilli cook off set to return this week

By Alex McCuaig, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on July 20, 2021.

amccuaig@medicinehatnews.com

The County of 40 Mile is gearing up for what promises to be the biggest event for the municipality since 2019 as the 74th Foremost Rodeo and chilli cook off make a return this week.

“We’re ready to put on a rodeo,” said an enthusiastic Jess Cowie, member of the local ag society. “Everyone is ready for a get-together.”

The event was pushed back from its usual June dates to be able to run this year.

With restrictions now lifted, the events are now going full steam ahead.

Live music, parade, pancake breakfast, kids events and beer gardens will accompany a full range of rough stock and timed events over the weekend with the slack getting underway on Thursday.

Cowie said there have been no issues corralling cowboys for the event due to any existing pandemic travel restrictions.

“It’s all Saskatchewan, Alberta entries,” he said.

In addition to the rodeo, the town’s annual slo-pitch tournament will be going ahead over the weekend.

In addition to traditional kids rodeo events, Cowie says the rodeo will feature its catch-and-keep event in which both toys and livestock will be able to be given to the children who grab them.

Friday will also feature annual chilli cook off starting 11:30 a.m., sponsored by the Foremost Chamber of Commerce Proceeds from will go towards the chamber’s summer youth employment program.

It’s a weekend full of community events aimed at supporting the region.

“It’s a big fundraiser for our ag society,” said Cowie, saying the $15 admission gets you the chance to enjoy the community while making sure the events can continue.

Camping near the rodeo site is free along with admission for kids under 12.

Friday and Saturday night will feature live music from Suite 33.

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