World Championship Blacksmiths’ Competition

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Steven Beane being presented to the Stampede Grandstand crowd. Photo courtesy of Calgary Stampede.
Steven Beane being presented to the Stampede Grandstand crowd. Photo courtesy of Calgary Stampede.

Congratulations to World Champion Steven Beane of Northallerton, Yorkshire, UK and Reserve Champion Matthew Randles, of Biddulph, Staffordshire, UK who emerged triumphant at the 35th anniversary of the World Championship Blacksmiths’ Competition (WCBC) in Calgary. The event attracted a stellar group of 59 of the world’s best farriers.

“The best part is that they represented 15 countries,” said Erik Swanby of the Stampede Blacksmith Committee. Over four days the competitors built a variety of specialty shoes within a set time, had their handiwork judged, and then the ten semi-finalists each shod a horse’s front feet. The final five contenders shod back feet.

According to Beane, “The level is so high you have to be an all-around great competitor. This year was very special. There were six former World Champions here.”

Beane takes home a very special trophy — a golden hammer appraised at $55,000. “It’s beautiful,” said Beane. “I love the Calgary Stampede. This is the elite farriers of the world.”

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