ST. PAUL – The St. Paul Family Rodeo Winter Series completed its first rodeo on Jan. 6 with about 40 contestants taking part.
This was the first time the winter rodeo series was hosted in St. Paul. The event is organized by Crystal Charbonneau and Desarie Malysh.
Charbonneau explained that Malysh previously hosted the winter rodeo series in Willingdon, but the decision was made to change the location to the St. Paul Ag Corral this year.
About 40 contestants turned out, travelling from other communities such as Bonnyville, Elk Point, Smoky Lake, and of course St. Paul. The rodeo includes barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying and dummy roping.
There are multiple age categories for the rodeo. Children six and under compete in one category, and then categories are also split into several more brackets up until 14 years old. The 14 and up category also includes adults.
"The whole purpose or vision for the family rodeo... [is] to cultivate quality time with family. It's an atmosphere for parents and children to attend, and for all experience levels to come together, grow together, and learn and develop their skills in riding," said Charbonneau.
The series will run once a month until April. At the end of the four rodeos, prizes will be awarded for the top scorers in each age category.
The organizers thanked all the announcers, timers, judges, and volunteers, as well as the contestants, the fans, and everyone else who came out. She also thanked the growing list of sponsors. "And of course, the St. Paul Ag Society... they're amazing to work with," said Charbonneau.
High point winners from the January rodeo are: Violet Ransom, Emma Charbonneau, Joshua Charbonneau, and Ella McCallum.
The next rodeos will be held on Feb. 3, March 9, and April 7. Those interested in registering can get in touch with Malysh at 780-656-6126
