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
Recent News
Global Wines Recognized as Calgary Stampede Crowns 2026 Cellar Showdown Champion
March 11, 2026Italian winery Ricasoli takes home the Grand Champion title for its Brolio Riserva, Chianti Classico DOCG 2021.
ENMAX Powers the Calgary Stampede with New Title Sponsorship of the ENMAX Relay Races
March 9, 2026One of the most anticipated moments of the Calgary Stampede Evening Show is getting a new title partner as ENMAX steps into sponsorship of the ENMAX Relay Races as part of an expanded partnership with the Calgary Stampede.
Bigger Acts. Bigger Vibes. Nashville North Is Back for Stampede 2026
March 5, 2026Nashville North returns, bigger and better, July 2–12 in Calgary’s original Stampede party tent. With more than 100 acts across four stages, the Stampede is set to once again deliver The Greatest Music Festival in the West, all included with admission to Stampede Park.