Ponoka Stampede

VOLD IS GOLD 🏆

CONGRATULATIONS, WAYNE VOLD & VOLD RODEO.

The Ponoka Stampede is incredibly proud to congratulate Wayne Vold and Vold Rodeo Ltd. on being named the 2026 Stock Contractor of the Year!

For the Vold family, rodeo and the Ponoka Stampede share a history that stretches back generations.

Wayne is a second-generation stock contractor who followed in the footsteps of his father, legendary stock contractor Harry Vold. The Vold family’s connection to Ponoka goes all the way back to the early days of the Stampede, when Harry brought horses to Ponoka before becoming its primary stock contractor.

Wayne eventually took over the Canadian operation and built Vold Rodeo Ltd., continuing a family tradition that has helped shape the quality of rodeo in Ponoka for decades.

And for Wayne, this award belongs to far more than one person.

“I really appreciate this,” Wayne said. “It all comes together with all the hard work and organization Team Vold puts in… everyone on the team. It takes a lot of effort. And we never quit trying to improve our stock. We’re always looking for new horses and bulls. Vold Rodeo is alive and well because of our great team.”

That commitment to continually raising the bar is something we know well in Ponoka. Year after year, Wayne and Team Vold have played an important role in bringing outstanding bucking stock and world-class rodeo action to the Ponoka Stampede.

Wayne has previously said of Ponoka, “I’m very proud of this rodeo… We’ve been a part of it for a long time. It’s a good one.”

The feeling is certainly mutual.

From the generations of the Vold family who have travelled through our parade to the incredible livestock that continues to enter our arena, the Vold name is woven into the history of the Ponoka Stampede.

Congratulations to Wayne, Nansen Vold and the entire Vold Rodeo Ltd. team on this well-deserved recognition as the 2026 Stock Contractor of the Year.

We are proud to have you as part of the Ponoka Stampede family and even prouder to celebrate this incredible achievement with you.

The grandest of them all ❤️

The Ponoka Stampede Grand Entry is one of the most legendary openers in the sport of rodeo.

Our hats off to the 2026 Grand Entry Team.



Captured by Carlie Borris

Every great tradition starts with a first Stampede 🧸

Watching our youngest fans experience the magic of the Ponoka Stampede reminds us why this tradition has stood strong for generations.

Cuteness captured by Carlie Borris

Pipers Ponies by CovyMoore.com 🍯