Gilbert Plains, get ready for a buckin' good time: the Manitoba High School Rodeo Association's Gilbert Plains JH Finals are set for this weekend.
MHSRA National Director Chad Stiles said there's lots of events for spectators to enjoy and cheer on, and for the athletes, the stakes couldn't be much higher.
"The saddle bronc, steer riding, bull riding, we've got all the roping events, breakaway roping events, barrel racing, pole bending, you name it. There's many events for many kids...those finals will help determine which one of our junior members will qualify for nationals, which is taking place in Guthrie, Oklahoma at the end of June, and our high school kids' finals will be taking place at Virden, 2 weeks from now," said Stiles.
The Manitoba High School Rodeo Association runs 2 groups: High School and Junior High. This weekend's rodeo in Gilbert Plains will showcase the hard work the Junior High athletes have put into their sports. Stiles said in his years as National Director, he's seen first-hand how the athletes have improved over the years.
Generation over generation, it just seems to get better and better all the time. The kids are riding some fantastic horses and getting some awesome coaching, and taking advantage of clinics and learning experiences all the time," said Stiles.
The events this weekend aren't just focused on the athletes. Admission is free, with a food truck on-site for all 3 days. Stiles said he knows anyone going into the event without much knowledge will definitely have their boots knocked off.
"I think most people who come to a high school rodeo, their expectations will be exceeded," said Stiles.
High school rodeo action gets underway at the Gilbert Plains Ag Grounds this weekend. Friday and Saturday start times are 10:00 AM, and Sunday's start time is 9:00 AM.
