The Williams Lake Stampede is 88 years old and in that time a lot of folks from around North America have journeyed to Williams Lake to take part in the annual event.
Head Stampede Honcho Fred Thomas is after new records again this year and is hoping they will break 16,000, for those attending this year’s Stampede.
Each of the last two years have been record breaking and he would like to see it happen for a third straight year.
Thomas has stated the seating in the grandstand is now more comfortable as they have been widened up to 22 inches.
All of the Stampede activities along with those other events like the street party, the Daybreak Rotary parade tomorrow at 10 am... the sports, stock car racing and more, keeps people moving around, spending money, helping the Williams Lake and area economy.
The Williams Lake Stampede is second only to Calgary for the top professional rodeos in Canada and the volunteers have made this one so successful.
Bruce Watt, a well-known local cowboy, was a participant in the Stampede, and one of those volunteers who worked tirelessly for the Williams Lake Stampede, helped young cowboys, and cowgirls, worked with the Stampede Queen contest and amongst other jobs he drove the infield tractor during the rodeo over the years.
Over 50 years Bruce Watt exhibited what it is like to be a true volunteer.
He will be especially remembered this year, as last November Bruce passed away at 87.
The business community in and around Williams Lake are also benefactors of the Williams Lake Stampede as some money will certainly be left in local coffers.
I sincerely hope you have a good Canada Day long weekend and are able to take in some of the 88th annual Williams Lake Stampede.
Don’t forget the July 1st celebrations in Boitanio park.
Remember, the highways will be busy this weekend, so please drive responsibly.
Ken Wilson is a freelance columnist for the Tribune/Weekend Advisor.