Introducing the 2026 Calgary Stampede Princess – Sarah O’Brien

As the Calgary Stampede Royalty program marks its 80th anniversary, Sarah O’Brien has been crowned the 2026 Calgary Stampede Princess. Chosen from an exceptional group of seven contestants, O’Brien embodies the grace, authenticity, and horsemanship that define this enduring legacy. 

“Each year, the Royalty Committee is amazed by the remarkable young women who step forward and continually raise the bar,” says Katelyn Gardner, Chair, Calgary Stampede Royalty Committee. “This year’s contestants brought an incredible blend of confidence, kindness, and a genuine enthusiasm for representing the Calgary Stampede. Sarah stood out throughout the competition for her authenticity, warmth, and excellent horsemanship. The Royalty Committee is confident she will serve as an outstanding ambassador for the organization throughout her reign.” 

O’Brien grew up in Calgary where her love of horses and community first began. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Mount Royal University and has a lifelong passion for working with animals. She has a diverse riding background that includes showing horses, trail riding in the mountains, and performing with the Calgary Stampede Showriders. O’Brien is honoured to represent an organization that has shaped her so much already, and to carry forward the Stampede’s legacy with pride, professionalism, and heart. 

“This is truly a dream come true,” says O’Brien. “I’ve dreamed of this since I was a little girl. This was my third time entering the contest, and I’ve worked harder each year — it really does pay off. I love the Stampede; I always call it my favourite holiday. I’m so looking forward to getting to know Raegan (First Rider, the 2026 First Nations Princess) and working together throughout the year. I had the opportunity to talk with her during the contest, and I can’t wait to collaborate as we represent the Stampede together.” 

O’Brien added that she hopes to inspire others the way she was once inspired by the Stampede Royalty while performing with the Showriders: “I want to spread that same passion for Stampede and encourage other young girls to follow their dreams.” 

O’Brien will act as ambassador of the Calgary Stampede alongside First Rider who was crowned the 2026 First Nations Princess last weekend. With their reigns officially starting on Jan. 1, 2026, through to Dec. 31, 2026, they will attend hundreds of events over the course of the year, including during The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, sharing and celebrating the Stampede’s Western heritage, cultures and community spirit, while benefiting from professional and personal development. 
  
Learn more about the Royalty programs here. 

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 preserves and celebrates our western heritage, cultures and community spirit. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities. 

For media inquiries, please contact: 

Media Relations 
Calgary Stampede
E media.relations@calgarystampede.com