Our annual Ranch Hand Competition was held Saturday, July 18, 2026 on one of the hottest and humid days of the year. The heat did not deter the participants nor the spectators with an estimated 80 to 90 people enjoying the competition. There was a full slate of 12 teams again this year - 7 Open Teams and 5 Ladies teams. The Simpson Ranch Cougars won the Ladies division once again, but the Open Division was won by a new team from the EZE Ranch. After the event was the awarding of the championship buckles and a delicious dinner with Big T's BBQ.
A huge shoutout to all of our sponsors without whom this event could not happen. This year’s sponsors included:
We would also like to thank the many volunteers who helped make this happen:
Airdrie Pro Rodeo team for managing the beer tent
Announcer and scorekeepers
Judges
Everyone who set-up/took-down the rodeo grounds
The organizers and all those who arranged and coordinated the event.
Finally we would like to thank all those who came out and watched the event in the heat and humidity. This was our largest audience since Covid and we very much appreciated your support.
2026 Ranch Hand Competition Champions:
Photographs by Phil Norregaard.
Additional photos from the 2026 Ranch Hand Competition:
Photographs by Dave House.
Photos from the 2025 Ranch Hand Competition:
Photographs by Phil Norregaard.
Interested in finding out more about the 2025 Ranch Hand Competition? Read all about it in this Airdrie City View article.
Photos from the 2024 Ranch Hand Competition:
Photographs by Christine Mackinnon.
Interested in sponsoring one of our events?