World Class Rodeo. With a Small-Town Feel

The first Rodeo was held at the Lions Rodeo Park in September 1967. Lion Bert Powlesland was President. Lion Ed Daeons roasted beef on a large BBQ with briquettes and served Beef-On-A-Bun to a large crowd in attendance. The 15-acre site of the 1st Rodeo, along 5th Avenue West in Cochrane, is still the location of the Cochrane Lions Rodeo today.

Rangeland Follies (named by a former Lion Ken Raby) has been held every year. There have been three special Rodeos: July 2, 1973 Rodeo of Champions, sponsored by Calgary Brewing and Malting Co. Ltd., and Aug 1986 Old Timers Rodeo and Parade and Silver Anniversary Rodeo and Parade Sept 1992.

Chuckwagon Races were held at Griffin Park along with horse racing with Pari-mutuel betting, Pony Chuckwagon races, and Pony Chariot Races, Junior Barrel Races, Open Barrel Races, Calf Roping, Stake Races, and Cochrane Beef Half-Mile Race. Pig Races, Catch the Rooster, and the Greased Pig Race, Media Pig Races where they had to lead the pig down the track, also for the kids, Mutton Bustin.