Riding Through the Heart of Cowboy Christmas

July truly is the heart of Cowboy Christmas, and this year’s peak season was nothing short of incredible. I kicked off the month in the best way possible, celebrating Canada Day at the iconic Ponoka Stampede for the final Showdown Rounds. The energy of the crowd, the intensity of the competition, and the pride in our country made for an unforgettable start to the month where we celebrate the peak of our sport.

From Ponoka, I joined my friends at Lammle’s Western Wear as we prepared for one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year, the Calgary Stampede. I had the honour of attending the LaDue Ladies Luncheon, where I was presented with a scholarship and had the opportunity to model alongside an incredible group of women. Celebrating the cowgirl spirit of Florence LaDue with so many who share that passion was a beautiful way to kick off Stampede season.

The week in Calgary was filled with special moments spent with my sash sisters as we took in Stampede events, connecting with the community and sharing the rodeo spirit. From there, I made my way to the Benalto Stampede for a sold-out Saturday night performance with C5 Rodeo. The atmosphere was electric as the stands filled with rodeo fans ready to cheer on some of our top rodeo athletes.

Next up was the Teepee Creek Stampede, where I dove into the full experience; pancake breakfasts, rodeo performances, chuckwagon action, and historical tours that showcased the deep roots of this rodeo community. I was so grateful for my time spent here and the generosity of this small community truly warmed my heart!

From northern Alberta, I headed south.. way south, to check off a bucket list dream: The Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo in Wyoming, “The Daddy of ‘Em All.” This historic rodeo did not disappoint. I reconnected with sash sisters, took in the iconic Chuckwagon Breakfast, evening shows, and even had the opportunity to partake in the thrilling Cheyenne fly-by and leave my mark in the treasured Chute #9. The sense of tradition and history at this rodeo is something I’ll never forget.

I made it back to Alberta just in time for the Medicine Hat Stampede, where I joined in many events such as the parade, pancake breakfasts, and enjoyed the rodeo action. This month also marked the close of applications for the 2026 Miss Rodeo Canada competition, and I’m beyond excited for the nine incredible young women who will take on this journey at the Canadian Finals Rodeo this fall.

I wrapped up the month at Zeke Thurston’s Invitational Bronc Match, helping Lammle’s Western Wear choose the Fans of the Night and being part of an event brimming with local pride for their hometown superstar. And, to keep me safe and rolling during this busy season, I made a quick stop for an oil change with the amazing team at Cam Clark Ford, always taking such great care of me on the road.

July was a month that celebrated everything I love about this role - community, tradition, and the spirit of rodeo. I’m so thankful to my sponsors and supporters who make this journey possible, and I can’t wait to see what August brings as the trail rolls on.