The World Famous Calgary Stampede got under way July 9-18th, 2010 in Calgary, Alberta Canada. I was ready for non-stop action, so I started things off at the Calgary Stampede Rodeo - rodeo's richest, roughest ride - riders attend by invitation only so these are the world’s best rodeo athletes and are some of the toughest in the world. The Rodeo highlights 6 major events; Bareback, Bull Riding, Barrel Racing, Saddle Bronc, Steer Wrestling, and Tie-Down Roping. I enjoyed watching the Novice & Junior events as well as wild pony races for the youngsters.

The GMC Rangeland Derby offers some of the fastest& quarter mile of racing found anywhere. As 9 heats of four wagons, 32 horses and 128 thundering hooves roar by the over 17,000 screaming fans, it's tough not to be on your feet cheering. Following the Chuckwagon races, the Grandstand Show 'World Party' gets under way featuring the very talented Young Canadians, Eva Availa, Tim Nutt (Comedian), Calgary Stampede Extreme Dream Team (Motocross) and the Toupe Barre Russe (acrobatic performers). Finally the day is capped off with a fantastic display from TransAlta’s ‘Light up the Night’ fireworks lighting up the night sky over the Calgary Stampede grounds.