In front of the sold-out crowd gold medals were awarded to close out the 2026 edition of the Utah Days of ’47 Rodeo presented by Zions Bank.

If you weren’t a barrel racing fan before the 2026 edition of the Calgary Stampede, one could bet if you watched just one round of the 10-day event you became a big fan after an electrifying performance by the best in the WPRA. Many have said and posted that it was the best barrel race they have ever witnessed, proving when you combine phenomenal ground with top jockeys on some of the best equine athletes in the business, it will be magical.

Michelle Alley had never been to Canada, but she made the most of her first time north of the border raking in a cool $20,799 and the barrel racing title at the Ponoka Stampede. You can bet that Ponoka will be back on her schedule in 2027.

If the short round of the 2026 Reno Rodeo was any indication of the level of competition expected within the WPRA over the next month of rodeos, then fans are in for a real treat. Both barrel racing and breakaway roping events had a good mix of newcomers and veterans all bringing the heat in Nevada.