73rd Annual Bridge Lake Stampede Showcases Rodeo Competitors and Community Spirit

The 73rd Annual Bridge Lake Stampede took place on July 5, 2025, at the Bridge Lake rodeo grounds, attracting approximately 1,200 attendees to witness a series of exhilarating rodeo competitions. The event, a hallmark of community spirit since its inception in 1949, featured traditional rodeo events such as bareback riding, saddle bronc, calf roping, and bull riding, among others.

The Stampede commenced with a grand entry led by the Tsq̓éscen̓ First Nation, featuring Jerome (Stumpy) Boyce and local drummers, which set a celebratory tone for the day's events. Logan Law, the assistant to the president of the Bridge Lake Community Club, emphasized the event's significance in fostering community connections and showcasing local talent. "It’s really cool. Everybody from around the Bridge Lake area comes, and it’s one of the main community events that goes on," Law stated.

Competitors from across Western Canada participated, with some traveling from as far as the Yukon and other provinces. Noah Kennedy, a competitor from Quesnel, shared his experience during the bull riding event, expressing a mix of disappointment and excitement about competing in a supportive environment. "They bring some nice stock, and it’s not a crazy fight behind the chutes," Kennedy noted, emphasizing the camaraderie among participants.

Alex Gauvin, a local from 100 Mile House, emerged as a standout competitor, winning first place in the bareback riding section despite minimal preparation. Gauvin attributed his participation to financial motivations, stating, "I was doing it for money. Mostly, I gotta buy a truck." This highlights the dual nature of the event as both a competitive arena and a source of economic opportunity for local riders.

The planning for this year’s Stampede began in February and involved extensive volunteer efforts from the community. Law remarked on the collaborative nature of the event, noting, "We plan it all together, and we all volunteer. It’s a lot of work, but it’s a lot of reward."

Overall, the 73rd Annual Bridge Lake Stampede not only entertained attendees with thrilling competitions but also reinforced the importance of community engagement, tradition, and support for local athletes. As the event continues to grow, it remains a vital part of the cultural fabric of the Bridge Lake region, embodying the spirit of rodeo and community pride.