Olympians trade skis and skates for hats and boots in Calgary Stampede parade

Olympians who once competed on ice and snow are now preparing to take part in a very different kind of spectacle—this time, under the wide open skies of Calgary. As the Calgary Stampede gets underway, two Winter Olympic medallists, Mikael Kingsbury and Courtney Sarault, are trading their skis and skates for cowboy hats and boots. Their participation marks the beginning of ten days of Western-themed celebrations that draw thousands of attendees and significantly boost the local economy.

The Stampede parade, which commenced on Friday morning, saw these athletes leading the procession down Calgary’s downtown streets. For many residents, attending the parade is a cherished tradition, with some arriving hours early to secure ideal viewing spots. Diehard fans have been seen camping out with lawn chairs and umbrellas, braving whatever weather conditions arise to witness the event firsthand. Kingsbury, a renowned mogul skier from Quebec, admitted he is relatively inexperienced with horseback riding. However, his enthusiasm for trying new things remains high. “I’m a beginner, but I like to try new stuff and learn,” he remarked. While acknowledging his nerves, he expressed confidence in the training of the horse he would ride. “If you tell me that the horse is not going to behave and it’s going to run everywhere, maybe, but I think the horse will be well-trained and it isn’t going to be a problem.”

Courtney Sarault, a short track speedskater hailing from Moncton, New Brunswick, is equally thrilled about her new role. Her excitement centers around the traditional Western attire she will wear. “I’m so excited about the hat and the outfit. When they asked me what I wanted, I said make sure it’s western to my core.” This transition from athletic gear to cowboy garb highlights the unique blend of sportsmanship and cultural celebration that defines the Stampede.

The Calgary Stampede, running until July 12, serves as a significant economic driver for the region. According to Joel Cowley, the Stampede’s CEO, the event contributes approximately $389 million annually to Alberta’s economy, with nearly 90 percent of that benefit concentrated within Calgary itself. Last year alone, the Stampede attracted over 1.4 million visitors, underscoring its importance as a major tourist attraction. Despite its success, Cowley emphasized that setting specific attendance goals is challenging due to uncontrollable factors such as weather and the overall state of the economy.

Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas noted that while the Stampede has long been associated with political figures, it remains a place where differences are set aside for communal enjoyment. He humorously referred to it as "probably the world’s premiere politician petting zoo," highlighting how political affiliations often take a backseat to shared experiences and festivities.

As preparations continued into Thursday afternoon, last-minute adjustments were made to ensure everything was ready for the grand opening. Rides were installed, concessions were fully stocked, and Scooter (Greg) Korek, a longtime employee with North American Midway Entertainment, reflected on his journey since joining the midway at age 17. His dedication to the event has spanned decades, and he finds immense satisfaction in entertaining large crowds daily. “It’s been an incredible roller-coaster ride… and it’s been an amazing career,” he stated, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to engage with hundreds of thousands of people each day.

With all aspects of the event meticulously planned, the Calgary Stampede promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors alike. As the festivities unfold, they will undoubtedly contribute further to the vibrant tapestry of Western culture that defines this iconic celebration.