CALGARY – Come Hell or High Water, the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede promised that the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’ would start on time. It was a claim that many people doubted that anyone could pull off. A mere ten days ago, the Stampede Grounds were under several feet of water. The track for the chuck wagon races was under water. The rodeo arena looked more like a site for a fishing derby than a place for bull riding and saddle bronc competition.
The only compromise with Mother Nature was the cancellation of a concerts at the Saddledome. Considering that the iconic arena had water filling up to the 14th row of seats, that is a little concession to the flood.
This morning, with Grand Marshall Chris Hadfield, the Calgary Stampede will travel along its traditional route.
It is a mark of the hard work of community, coupled with the Calgary Spirit of never saying something can’t be done.
Ten days ago in Calgary, most people thought the idea of hosting the Stampede was impossible.
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