The kick-off to summer and sunshine took place outside Revolution Place on Tuesday afternoon, as the Bust-Out BBQ officially welcomed the start of the 2019 Grande Prairie Stompede.
The occasion was also used to name the 2019 Stomper of the Year, which went to Stompede President Trevor Denis.
“It’s always awesome to be acknowledged by your peers. I think everyone on the board should have won this award, we have a great crew and I’m grateful to have them,” Denis says.
Denis says after 13 years of work behind the scene and now in his position as President, he has a greater understanding of just how much the show means to people in the region.
“Growing up here, I think it’s an integral part of our region, and it’s the premier show. It’s quite an honour.”
County Reeve Leanne Beaupre, who along with Mayor Bill Given proclaimed the week of May 29th, 2019 Stompede Week, says it’s the kind of event residents who lived through the deep freeze are certainly looking forward to.
“With the long winter we had, everyone is willing to get out, and wanting to get out to have a good time.”
The fair, rodeo and chucks will all kick off Wednesday at Evergreen Park. The Stompede Queen will be crowned Friday afternoon during the rodeo.