Calgary Stampede Canvas Auction Ready to Roll
Calgary – With just one month to go, the countdown is on for the 2017 Calgary Stampede Canvas Auction, presented by GMC. The annual spring event, held this year on March 23, is an opportunity for companies and groups to secure an exclusive, behind the scenes experience during the Calgary Stampede.
“This year’s competition is shaping up to be extremely exciting,” says Mike Piper, chair of the Chuckwagon Committee. “Our greatest champion to date, Kelly Sutherland, will race at the Calgary Stampede for the final time before he retires. We also have two young, rookie drivers set to compete on our track for their very first time.” In total, 36 drivers will take to the Stampede track for 10 days of heart-pounding action. They will be watched by more than 160,000 live, cheering fans in the stands, as well as nearly 3 million television viewers across Canada.
The auction gives advertisers the opportunity to pair with the driver of their choice, advertise on his wagon canvas during the 2017 Calgary Stampede and enjoy one-of-a-kind hosting experiences at the heart of the action in the chuckwagon barn area. “It’s a fantastic way to entertain clients, employees, friends and family. You won’t get an experience like this anywhere else,” says Piper.
For the second year, the Calgary Stampede is working to facilitate partnerships for those companies or groups interested in experiencing the thunder and excitement of the GMC Rangeland Derby, without committing to the full ten nights. Advertisers looking for partial, or even one night opportunities, are encouraged to reach out for more information on how to become part of a consortium.
The 2017 Calgary Stampede Canvas Auction, presented by GMC, takes place at 5 p.m. Thursday, March 23 in the Boyce Theatre, Stampede Park. More information on the auction can be found at: www.calgarystampede.com/stampede/shows/gmc-rangeland-derby/canvas-auction
2017 GMC Rangeland Derby – by the numbers:
5 pairs of brothers.
4 sets of fathers & sons.
3 Gorsts- Father Gary will compete against sons Logan and Dustin.
2 rookies – Cody Ridsdale and Dustin Gorst
1 final year of racing for Kelly Sutherland. After a remarkable 45-year career which included 12 Calgary Stampede Championships, the ‘King’ will be retiring at the end of this season.
About the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned 10-day Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together; we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and promotes western heritage and values. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.
See more at calgarystampede.com