Inaugural Calgary Stampede First Nations Rodeo & Relay Celebrates Indigenous Excellence and Competition

CALGARY, AB (June 13, 2026) — The inaugural Calgary Stampede First Nations Rodeo & Relay concluded Saturday at GMC Stadium, bringing together some of North America's top Indigenous rodeo athletes and relay racing teams for a day of competition, culture and celebration.

Hosted as part of the Calgary Stampede's year-round commitment to celebrating Indigenous excellence and Western heritage, the event attracted a spectacular crowd of more than 8150 people. 

"The inaugural First Nations Rodeo & Relay was an incredible success, showcasing remarkable athleticism, and horsemanship - and gathering our community together in a new and unique way," said Kristina Barnes, Director of Agriculture & Western Events for the Calgary Stampede. "Today's competitors demonstrated the skill, determination and pride that make these sports such an important part of Indigenous culture and tradition."

In saddle bronc riding, Alan Kole Gobert of Browning, Montana was crowned the champion with a score of 79 points.

“To be able to compete here is a dream come true. I rode here in the rookie bronc riding at the Stampede just a few years ago and to be able to come back and to hear my name being called behind the bucking shoots - that was pretty cool,” said Kole Gobert.

The ladies breakaway roping title went to Justine Begay of Fountain Hills, Arizona, who stopped the clock in 2.37 seconds.

“I’ve been excited for this all day and I’m so happy to be leaving here with a win at the Calgary Stampede. I wanted to win this for my family and I worked my butt off to make sure that happened.”

Alberta's own Ty Ferguson of Foremost earned top honours in bareback riding with an event-winning score of 80 points.

In relay racing, the Chief Enoch Lapotac team delivered the fastest run of the day, crossing the finish line in 3:10.99 to earn the title and a qualifying spot for the 2026 Calgary Stampede.

“This means a lot because we practice a lot and nobody likes to lose, we all like to win. And if you believe it, you can achieve it. That’s one thing I always stick by,” said Tyrone Jackson, the rider for the team. “My family would be so proud of me right now because I come from a rough background and I’m just doing my best out here to strive and prosper.”

Additional event champions included Tuck Johnson of Browning, Montana, who won steer wrestling with a time of 5.28 seconds; Jackson Louis (header) and Trey Camarillo (heeler), who captured the team roping title in 10.07 seconds; JC Hawk of Scottsdale, Arizona, who won ladies barrel racing in 17.291 seconds; and Jay Guerrero of Wadsworth, Nevada, who claimed the tie-down roping title with a time of 11.44 seconds.

No champion was crowned in bull riding after no competitors recorded a qualified ride.

The First Nations Rodeo & Relay brought together competitors, families and fans to celebrate Indigenous excellence in sport while honouring the traditions and community connections that continue to make rodeo and relay racing an important part of Indigenous culture across North America.

Fans can continue to experience world-class rodeo action during the 2026 Calgary Stampede, taking place July 3-12. Tickets for the iconic Calgary Stampede Rodeo and the Rangeland Derby presented by Play Alberta featuring Chuckwagon Races and ENMAX Relay Races and the Grandstand Show presented by Freedom Mobile are on sale now and available at calgarystampede.com/tickets.

About the Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the West. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together, we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that shares Western hospitality and community spirit. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities. calgarystampede.com

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