First Nations Rodeo and Relay to showcase athletes and culture at GMC Stadium

The First Nations Rodeo & Relay will be presented at GMC Stadium in Calgary on June 13, showcasing top Indigenous athletes, culture and crafts.

The Calgary Stampede is launching a new event that celebrates Indigenous sport and culture.

The inaugural First Nations Rodeo and Relay will take over GMC Stadium on June 13.

Created in partnership with the Indian National Finals Rodeo (INFR), with the support of Elbow River Camp Tipi Holder advisers from Treaty 7 First Nations, the event will feature top athletes from across Canada and the U.S. participating in eight rodeo events, five heats of relay racing, cultural performances and a First Nations Marketplace.

“The Calgary Stampede First Nations Rodeo and Relay is more than a competition, it’s a gathering of community and cultures, and a testament to our enduring relationship with the Tipi Holders from Elbow River Camp,”Stampede CEO Joel Cowley said in a release.

“This event will be a powerful celebration of Indigenous athleticism, horsemanship and culture. We’re honoured to welcome these exceptional competitors to GMC Stadium and invite fans to experience an unforgettable night of sport, pride and community.”

Relay racing horseman Cody Big Tobacco said he’s looking forward to the event.

“Any time you get to run in GMC Stadium, with the atmosphere and huge crowd, it’s always exciting,” said Big Tobacco, a horseman with the Big Tobacco relay racing team from Siksika Nation.

“This is a great opportunity for people to come out and enjoy our culture while watching relay racing and rodeo. Some of the best teams from across the continent are coming, and it will be awesome to compete against them so close to home.”

Tickets go on sale Monday, with prices starting at $30.