STURGIS - The Sturgis sports grounds were alive with action when eager fans took to the grounds for the fifth annual Sports and Rodeo weekend on June 25 and 26.
“The weekend was well attended on both days. It was a slow start on Saturday due to rain but on Sunday it was better attended,” stated a representative from the Sports and Rodeo committee.
The weekend kicked off with a pancake breakfast at the Sturgis READ Club.
The Etomaimie Riders Club hosted gymkhana events on both days with several participants from across the local area.
An outdoor trade show featured various vendors displaying their products.
Rodeo events, held both days, were made possible through Francis Bourque of Pelly who provided all the livestock required for saddle bronc, bull riding and sheep riding. It showcased the many talents and skills of cowboys entered in the program. The barrel racing had competitors competing for prize money and featured local riders. The rodeo events concluded with a fun sheep riding event for all local children.
Entertainment for children featured, the Sturgis Kin Club inflatable bouncy castles.
Kenton Hull from Sky High Tree Services held a chain saw carving demonstration on both days.
Saturday hosted the annual Ivar Brass Memorial co-ed slo-pitch ball tournament. A rib supper, dance and fireworks conclude the events on Saturday night. Entertainment for the dance was provided by the Fred Mitchell band.
A pancake breakfast at the Sturgis Sports Grounds kicked off events on Sunday, followed by a Christian cowboy service.
A car, truck and tractor show and shine featured 27 entries with four fan favorite awards handed out. Winners were: John Dvorak of Swan River (1950 Ford Coupe), Darnell Kobelka of Canora (1967 Pontiac GTO), Jack Lesanko of Sturgis (El Camino) and Laura Cole of Swan River (1969 Road Runner).
The chuckwagon and chariot races were the highlight of the weekend for many. There were 50 chariots racers and 34 chuckwagon entries. The Eastern Professional Chariot and Chuckwagon Association hosted the event which was the last race of the season for the Association.
The top three chariots racers over the two days of racing were: Floyd Hooge, Crystal Drechaler and Casey Peterson B team.
The top three chuckwagon racers over the two-days of racing were: Casey Peterson, Wayne Salmond and Kevin Gareau.
