Some 10,000 visitors took to the grounds of Coteau-du-Lac's Agroparc Pont-Château on July 18, 19, 20 and 21 for the first-ever rodeo.

On site, spectators were able to discover the world of rodeo as 250 cowboys took part in the various competitions. “We welcomed cowboys not only from Quebec, but also from the United States, Ontario and the Maritimes,” says Simon Guérard, vice-president of Agroparc Pont-Château.

A total of ten events were presented, including saddled and unsaddled horse riding, wild bull riding, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, team calf roping, barrel racing, exchange racing, rescue racing and junior barrel racing. “We did indeed have, junior races in which cowboys as young as 8 participated. Our oldest cowboy was 70, and he took part in the rescue race,” continues Mr. Guérard.

In addition to the competitions, inflatable games, a mechanical bull, dance classes and musical performances by Dj Pascal Rotondo, Laurent Barsalou, Denis Miron and the Merle Marlow Band enlivened the site throughout the festivities. 

“We're really delighted with the response from the public for this first edition. I'd also like to thank festival-goers, because despite the fact that there were nearly 10,000 people in attendance over the weekend, there were no major incidents or fights. Everything went very smoothly, and we're very proud of that,” adds the vice-president.

On July 26, 27 and 28, Agroparc Pont-Château will host the major Gymkhana competition, which attracts some 200 competitors every year. Organized by the Association équestre régionale Western Sud-Ouest Gymkhana (AERWOSG), the competition enables riders of all ages to demonstrate their equestrian talents.

To find out more about Agroparc Pont-Château's activities, visit the organization's Facebook page.