(Photo credit: Chantelle Bowman)

By CPRA

Starting July 29, 2023

CPRA launches Video Review Trial

Jul 27, 2023 | 11:50 AM

The Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) has announced a Video Review Trial.

Officials say the initiative will kick into gear at the upcoming Hardgrass Bronc Match in Pollockville July 29 and again at the Strathmore Stampede on the August long weekend.

CPRA personnel and rodeo officials say they recognize that rodeo events move quickly. The goal of the Wrangler Pro Rodeo Officials is always to be as accurate as possible, with the Trial an opportunity to enhance the process.

“With rodeo athletes getting as good and as fast as they are,” said CPRA Rodeo Administrator Tanner Girletz, “this is another way for our judges to make the right calls in a split second. The Challenge Flag is there to allow athletes to question the calls made in that quick timeframe. Rodeo is another step closer to being recognized as a true Professional sport along with the likes of the NHL and NFL. This announcement is a groundbreaking day for Professional Rodeo in Canada.”

CPRA rodeo official Lane Peterson agreed. “Video review gives contestants another avenue to ensure the integrity of competition by providing the opportunity for a second look at certain instances that can occur during a rodeo event. It’s one more step in the evolution of Professional Rodeo.”

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If the trial run of the Review goes well at Pollockville and Strathmore, the CPRA is hoping to use Video Re-view at the 2023 Canadian Finals Rodeo, and long term, aim to have the technology and process available at any rodeo with $20,000+/event or at special events with $50,000+ added/event.

Denny Phipps, General Manager of the CPRA, explained some of the lead-up to today’s announcement. “Video review is something that has been a topic of discussion for a number of years, dating back to my time on the CPRA Board if not before. And we feel we are at the appropriate time to implement a trial of the processes and procedures at these two events.”

The CPRA believes that technological advancements coupled with the willingness of the membership have opened the door for this next step in Professional Rodeo competition. And the Association says it is excited to move forward for all Pro Rodeo stakeholders in Canada.

“Thank you to all involved throughout the lead up process,” Denny Phipps added, “notably, the CPRA Board of Directors, Lane Peterson and all Wrangler Pro Rodeo Officials, Rodeo Administrator Tanner Girletz, Chris Cooke of Feature Productions and Don Johansen, Strathmore Stampede. “The expertise of all of these individuals has helped us reach this point.”

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