Calgary – The Calgary Stampede is using technology and science to continually increase animal and cowboy safety in the century old tradition of cowboy sports. The Stampede’s existing chute system, installed over 30 years ago, is being replaced this week with the most advanced chute system available, employing modern technologies and animal handling techniques.
“We’re committed to providing the best and safest equipment for all of our athletes, whether they’re animals or humans,” says Keith Marrington, Director, Rodeo and Chuckwagons, Calgary Stampede. “It was time to replace the Stampede’s old bucking chutes and technology has advanced to a point where we are able to provide our cowboys and animals with the finest equipment out there.”
Throughout the process, the Stampede consulted with Jennifer Woods, a prominent, independent Livestock Handling Specialist, who advised the Stampede on the selection of the new chutes. “I really like these bucking chute gates. I have been looking at several others as I have traveled around the past couple of years and Priefert has done a superior job of addressing animal handling standards through innovation and design,” says Woods.
Features of the new rodeo chutes, noted by Woods, include:
· 4-inch spacing between gate bars, reducing or completely eliminating the risk of getting legs and hooves through the bars and stuck in the gates.
· Customized 6’ 6” tall gates that will significantly reduce the risk of horses and bulls going over the top of the gates.
· Bucking chute safety pads behind the on the roll gates will offer enhanced safety for the cowboys in the chute.
The new chutes have been built by Priefert Rodeo, an animal handling facility design company out of Texas, and will be fully installed in advance of this year’s Stampede.
About the Calgary Stampede
As we enter our second century, the Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned 10-day Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together; we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and promotes western heritage and values. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.
For more information, please contact:
Doug Fraser
Media Relations Manager
T 403.261.0242
C 403.585.3376
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E dfraser@calgarystampede.com