Hudson’s Hope rodeo returns with thrilling events

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The annual Hudson’s Hope Open Rodeo is scheduled for this weekend in the district.

First beginning in 1958, the 2023 edition was the first since 2008, after a lack of sponsorship prevented the event from happening, according to Hudson’s Hope Rodeo secretary Lynn Peck.

Peck credits the work of Yvonne Moritz and Shona Maya Campbell Smit, the organizers who revived the event last year.

“They were very instrumental in getting it done,” said Peck.  “Neither had any experience in putting on an event of this magnitude.”

“I told them to get their key personnel in place, and the rest will fall into order.  It’s what they did, with an experienced subcontractor to make it work. They got experienced judges. They found out how great an event like this is when you get the right people in the right positions.”

Several events will commence on Saturday, with disciplines including, but not limited to, Bareback Riding, Bullriding, Steer Wrestling, and Ladies’ Barrel Racing.

Payments, ranging from as low as $250 for junior competitors to $1000 each day for open riders, are structured based on entry fees and placements, according to Peck.

“Entry fees for open riders are $50,” said Peck.  “So, if there are 17 riders for one event, they’ll pay out for the top six spots.”

“The Junior events are $20 entry fees, and they follow the same formula.”

On Saturday evening, attendees to the Norm Gully Dancehall will see a concert headlined by country singer Darion Wray.

Peewee events, including a calf scramble and mutton busting for youths up to six years old, will also take place.

“Everyone likes to watch the kids,” says Peck. 

The event will begin with a Slack opening from 8 to 10 a.m. for overflow with many riders.  Main performances will start at 1 p.m. on July 27th and 28th. 

A Facebook post on Wednesday afternoon says over 50 children and 200 entries for each day are entered, with over 20 bulls provided by CX Ranch and Mulvahill Rodeo Stock of Quesnel providing the stock.

Further information about the Hudson’s Hope Rodeo can be found on the event’s Facebook page.