What is the Cowboy Up Challenge?

  • The Calgary Stampede Cowboy Up Challenge is a multi-faceted equestrian sporting event that showcases both horse and rider as they maneuver through a series of obstacles.
  • Each obstacle demonstrates both their amazing horsemanship skills and incredible speed.
  • This is an invitational competition, limited to 10 elite riders, selected to compete in the three go-round event.
  • Meet and greet the riders right after the event (8 p.m) on the 8th and 10th

Where is the event held?

 

What’s new in 2019?

  • We have also brought back more of the fun, fast and furr-ious Extreme Dog & Pony Race action which is being held on Sunday July 7th.
  • Cowboy Up racers are teamed up with some powerful pooches, racing against the clock in a bid to be the top dog & pony of the show!


Dates and Schedule

July 7, 2019

9:30 a.m – 10:30 a.m

11:15 a.m – 12:15 p.m

Nutrien Western Event Centre

The Extreme Dog & Pony Show


July 8, 2019

6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Nutrien Western Event Centre

Round 1

July 10, 2019

 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Nutrien Western Event Centre

Round 2

July 11, 2019

 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Nutrien Western Event Centre

Finals









Guest information


Do I need a ticket to spectate?

  • No.  Seating is on a first come-first served basis.


Will there be a lineup? 

  • Possibly.  As all seats for competitions and shows in the Nutrien Western Event Centre are first come-first served, depending on the popularity of the event, there might be a line-up. 

 

What time do I need to arrive?

  • To increase the possibility of guaranteeing a seat, we recommend arriving 30 minutes before the start of the event.


Is accessible seating available?

  • Yes. There is an elevator located in the rotunda.  This will take you to the upper bowl of the arena where designated accessible seating is available.


Where is the closest accessible parking?

  • There are two accessible parking lots of equal distance from the Nutrien Western Event Centre.  One is located south of the Erlton Gates in Lot 8 and the other is located northeast of the BMO Centre in Lot 10.


Can I bring my stroller?

  • Yes.  You can take your stroller to the Nutrien Western Event Centre where there will be a designated unsupervised area to store your stroller while watching the event.


Can I bring non-alcoholic beverages?

  • Yes.  Non-alcoholic beverages are permitted on Stampede Park and in all our venues.


Can I purchase alcoholic beverages at this event? 

  • Yes.  Beer and wine will be available for purchase.


Can I bring my service animal?

  • Yes.  Providing your service animal has the appropriate registration.  Please see our service animal guidelines here.

 

Can I bring my camera?

  • Yes.  Cameras for personal use are permitted.


Competitor information


What is the prize purse?

  • $30,000.
  • The winner of the sudden death finals will be awarded $10,000.

 

Contact:

  • Tammy Botsford, 403.261.9316 tbotsford@calgarystampede.com.



For additional information such as entry fees, awards, rules and judging criteria, please check out the Cowboy Up Challenge Website.