The Calgary Stampede released its 2026 rodeo contestant list on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
A total of 210 athletes from Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Australia will compete for over $2.1 million in prize money at GMC Stadium this summer.
>>> Japan vs Tunisia: Historic 1,000th World Cup Match
Champions and Local Talent
The roster includes historic champions and local competitors from Alberta communities.
Langdon roper Shelby Boisjoli-Meged will return to defend her title after giving birth to her son in May.
Boisjoli-Meged made history in 2025 by becoming the first-ever Calgary Stampede ladies breakaway roping champion when the event debuted at the venue.
Organizers highlighted the upcoming competition as a showcase of diverse athlete narratives and high-stakes regional participation.
"This year's lineup brings together proven champions, rising stars and athletes with powerful stories of grit, family legacy and incredible comebacks," said Kristina Barnes, director of agriculture and western events at the Calgary Stampede.
Numerous Alberta competitors are scheduled across multiple events.
Audrey Butler of Wheatland County will compete in breakaway roping, Kyle Lucas of Carstairs in tie-down roping, and Harley Cole of Okotoks in steer wrestling.
>>> Eloy Room Makes 15 Saves as Curacao Draws With Ecuador in World Cup
"From lightning-fast rides to edge-of-your-seat competition, every afternoon at GMC Stadium will showcase the strength, precision and determination that make the Calgary Stampede Rodeo unforgettable," Barnes added.
The international field features prominent titleholders, including ten-time Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association world champion Stetson Wright of Utah.
He will compete in both bull riding and saddle bronc riding.
Returning 2025 champions include Scott Guenthner of Provost in steer wrestling, Zeke Thurston of Big Valley in saddle bronc riding, Anita Ellis of Idaho in ladies barrel racing, Shad Mayfield in tie-down roping, and Cooper Cooke of Idaho in bareback riding.
Rodeo performances will run daily at 1:30 p. m.
at GMC Stadium.
>>> Severe Lightning Forces World Cup Spectators to Shelter in Houston
Live broadcasts will be available on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ in Canada, and on The Cowboy Channel and Cowboy Channel+ in the United States.
