Bucking broncos and bulls were a barrel of fun at the Coombs Rodeo Grounds over the weekend.
The third annual Bulls, Broncs and Barrels event was a huge success, said Kimberly Cooper, secretary of the Vancouver Island Western Heritage Society, a non-profit organization that organizes the popular summer series.
“This was our busiest event out of the three for sure,” said Cooper.
“We had between 1,500 to 2,000 spectators. Both the grandstands and beverage gardens were full on both days.”
The two-day rodeo featured working cowboys and cowgirls from British Columbia and Alberta farms and cattle ranches, as well as a couple of Australian riders that competed in bull riding, bareback riding, and saddle bronc.
As well, Vancouver Island’s top barrel racers were also on display, getting their trusty steeds galloping around the barrels at top speed.
The winners on Saturday were Cash Kerner of Cache Creek in the bareback category, Marlon Williams of Mount Currie in bull riding, Joe Roberson of Merritt in saddle bronc and Amanda Yasinski on Coy in barrel racing.
On Sunday, Bill Turner of Elk Point, Alta., won the bareback riding, Roberson again took top honours in saddle bronc, Williams was the top bull rider and in the barrel, Shaylynn Osterman of Merritt won the top prize.
The Bareback Pot Of Gold winner was Cash Kerner, who, aside from having his name etched on the memorial trophy, also received a lifetime membership in the Canadian Rodeo Historical Association, which manages the Rodeo Hall of Fame. He also received a $1,000-sponsorship for his next rodeo season.
Aside from the competition, there was a steak dinner held at the Qualicum Beach Legion, a Saturday night dance with Shot Gun Kelly, and a pancake breakfast with the Parksville Shriners.
This year’s event helped raised $1,785 for the Ty Pozzobon Foundation. Pozzobon, who was Canada’s top bull rider from Merritt, passed away last January. All the bottles that were collected from the event were donated to the B.C. fires victims.
Cooper said they want to express a huge thank you to all the sponsors and volunteers.
For story tips: michael.briones@pqbnews.com