Exceptional horsemanship, athleticism and precision were on full display Thursday as the Calgary Stampede's Working Cow Horse Spectacular brought together some of the top National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) competitors at the Nutrien Western Event Centre.
The Working Cow Horse Spectacular challenged horse-and-rider teams to demonstrate speed, control and cow sense through demanding rein and fence work. Competitors were judged on their ability to execute controlled reining patterns and disciplined cow work with the highest degree of difficulty, precision and style.
"Overall, it was a good competition day," said announcer Ron Anderson. "The horses and competitors are showing improvement every year. Their skill level is improving."
Interest in the event continues to grow, with two qualifying competitions held in May and June attracting an increased number of entries.
"I'm a cow horse person and what I'm seeing is the positivity of the competitors on coming to Calgary," said Anderson. "They're saying that this is a great show and they want to come."
Steady crowds filled the stands throughout the day, creating an energetic atmosphere for competitors.
"There's a core group of people that love working cow horse," said Anderson. "The audience was enthusiastic, which adds momentum to the horses and riders."
The Working Cow Horse Spectacular champions are:
Youth Boxing: Taylor Myer aboard CR Im That Tuff
Non-Pro Boxing: Jennifer Dovell aboard Jac Daniels Or Cash
Non-Pro Bridle: Janice Cornforth aboard Cats Picasso
Open Hackamore: Massimo Garlanda aboard Truckin Luna Picasso
Open Bridle: John C. Swales aboard Hendrixx
The Working Cow Horse Spectacular is a National Reined Cow Horse Association-sanctioned event.
All results for the Calgary Stampede Working Cow Horse Spectacular can be found on this page.
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