What is the North American Sheep Shearing Challenge?

  • It’s a contest of the quick and the clean.  Two shearers side by side -- who can shear sheep in the best time, but more importantly, with the most skill! Champions and challengers alike -- sharpen up your gear and come win your share of Canada’s richest shearing purse!
  • Experienced shearers from around the world compete in the Open Class.  Less experienced shearers are invited to enter the Intermediate Class.  Every shearer wins money in each go-round, in our unique head-to-head duel format.  This is a timed and judged event, based on international shearing rules and emphasizing the Calgary Stampede’s commitment to safe animal handling practices.


Where is the event held?

  • In the Northern Lights Arena.

Dates and schedule



July 12th, 2019

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Northern Lights Arena

Go 1

2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Northern Lights Arena

Go 2

6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Northern Lights Arena

Semi Finals & 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 Victoria Pavilion 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.

Where is the closest accessible parking?

Can I bring my stroller?

  • Yes.  You can take your stroller to the Victoria Pavilion. Please note there is no stroller parking available.

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? 

  • No, alcoholic beverages will not 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


For additional information such as entry fees, awards, rules and judging criteria, please check out the North American Sheep Shearing Challenge website.