The Stage is Set for Chuckwagon Racing’s Biggest Night
The start list is set for the richest race in chuckwagon driving. Emerging from Saturday’s two semifinal heats at the GMC Rangeland Derby and advancing to Sunday Showdown’s dash for cash – with $150,000 up for grabs, including $100,000 for the winner – are four contestants:
Kurt Bensmiller of Dewberry Alberta has $44,300 in winnings this week and captured the Richard Cosgrave Memorial Award for best aggregate time. Bensmiller as won three of the past four Calgary Stampedes and once again, he’s going to be tough to beat. His time tonight of 1:10.80 marked the fastest lap of the week.
Mark Sutherland of Okotoks, Alberta has earned $47,900 so far this week. Tomorrow night’s championship heat is Mark’s his second trip to the championship heat. In 2009, Sutherland finished third.
Jason Glass of HIgh River, Alberta has so far earned $44,850 in day money, and is no stranger to the Dash for Cash, making 10 appearances. Glass, who’s competed in the Stampede 28 consecutive times, captured the championship in 2013.
Drivern by Chanse Vigen, Mike Vigen’s wagon has so far earned $43,050 and has Chanse writing quite a story. He has driven all week for his father, who’s been physically unable to compete. Chanse has raced in the Final Four twice before, but never captured a championship.
The barrel draw for the Dash for Cash goes Sunday afternoon during the rodeo.
The CN Safety Award – which goes to the fastest penalty-free driver through the first eight days – went to Jason Glass and Mark Sutherland, deadlocked with 9:43.94 aggregate times. They split the $5,000 bonus. The Outstanding Outrider Awards went to Rory Gervais ($3,000), Casey Knight ($2,000), Ethan Motowylo ($1,000).
The Calgary Stampede Equine Outfit of Excellence Awards will be announced and handed out by the Stampede tomorrow night.
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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 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.
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