New event to debut at 2023 Calgary Stampede Rocky Mountain Cup

Calgary – Following the success of the inaugural Rocky Mountain Cup at Stampede 2022, featuring the world’s best Team Ropers, Canada’s richest day of roping is returning in 2023 with the addition of a new event. Ladies Breakaway Roping will make its Stampede debut on Wednesday, July 12 in the Nutrien Western Event Centre as part of the Rocky Mountain Cup’s high-caliber competition.

“Ladies Breakaway Roping is one of the fastest growing events in rodeo and we are thrilled to bring it to Stampede 2023,” says Kristina Barnes, Manager of Agriculture & Western Events for the Calgary Stampede. “This fast-paced sport highlights the technical skills of its competitors, and we can’t wait to showcase 30 incredibly talented female ropers at this year’s Rocky Mountain Cup.”

In addition to adding Breakaway Roping to the Rocky Mountain Cup, the Calgary Stampede will be hosting a qualifier event, with four spots at Stampede up for grabs. The four fastest ropers will join 26 women who will be invited through 2022 and current standings. This is an exclusive opportunity to earn a spot at this year’s Stampede, and takes place in the Nutrien Western Event Centre on Tuesday, June 13.

“There are so many people who have worked so hard to try to get to this point and now girls like me and younger have a chance to rope at a professional level on a pro rodeo stage,” says Kendal Pierson, National High School Rodeo Association World Champion Break Away Roper. “To have that opportunity, we’re all so grateful and excited for it.”  

The Calgary Stampede’s Rocky Mountain Cup is Canada’s richest single day of roping, with $150,000 in prize money on the line. But it’s not just the opportunity to win big that has best in the sport looking forward to the competition in July.  

“Last year was awesome,” says Jeremy Buhler, a World Champion and 2X Canadian Champion Team Roper from Arrowood, Alberta, who placed third in the 2022 competition. “Growing up as a Team Roper, I never thought I’d be part of the Calgary Stampede so I’m grateful to return this year and to have the chance to compete so close to home.”

The Rocky Mountain Cup takes place on July 12, 2023, in the Nutrien Western Event Centre and is free with admission to the 2023 Calgary Stampede.

Learn more about the Rocky Mountain Cup and the Breakaway Roping 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 more information, please contact: 

Shannon Greer                                               
Manager, Communications & Media Relations 
Calgary Stampede                                           
T 403.585.0467                                              
E sgreer@calgarystampede.com