(Photo: The Canadian Press)

By Troy Gillard

let 'er buck

Feds grant travel exemption for Calgary Stampede competitors, visitors, staff

Jun 11, 2021 | 3:31 PM

CALGARY – People heading to the Calgary Stampede from abroad have been given the green light from the federal government to cross the border.

Premier Jason Kenney is celebrating the fact that performers, competitors, and staff will be allowed to come to Calgary for the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, noting that the exemption means the rodeo aspect of the Stampede will be able to go ahead this year.

“Like Alberta itself, the Stampede has persevered through floods, fires, and much more,” Kenney said in a release Friday morning.

“Now, with vaccines on our side and Albertans lining up to get protected, we can add a global pandemic to the many obstacles the Stampede has overcome.”

Calgary Stampede officials are also celebrating the federal government’s move.

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“Safety is the primary focus of the 2021 Stampede, for our community as well as those coming to compete at the Stampede Rodeo,” said Dana Peers, Interim CEO of the Calgary Stampede, in a release.

“We are committed to meeting and exceeding Alberta Health guidelines and appreciate the recognition by PHAC and the Federal government of our efforts and commitment. This decision acknowledges the importance of our iconic and world-renowned rodeo as part of our annual celebration and we look forward to once again hosting the very best in the world in this sport.”