Thousands of people each day will be heading to the rodeo grounds to enjoy the 56th Annual Lions Labour Day Weekend Rodeo.

Pulling it off takes a huge crew of dedicated 200 volunteers, says Chris Connon, Lions president and rodeo co-chair.

"It's a massive group," says Connon. "We probably have over 200 volunteers over the weekend. Not everybody can commit time to every day, which is totally understandable, but everybody gives the amount of time they have. Without volunteers, community events like this don't continue to happen, so it's amazing to see the outpouring of support."

A volunteer appreciation barbecue was held two days in advance of the rodeo for a good reason.

"Everybody's worn out by the time we get ready to do it Sunday or Monday or they're otherwise busy, so this is a nice night. Everybody can come and have a burger with us, sign off their credentials, and everybody gets their passes well ahead of time. It saves a lot of chaos on Saturday morning."

The rodeo is also fortunate to have a long list of generous sponsors.

The FCA-sanctioned rodeo kicks off on Saturday and continues until Labour Day Monday. Gates of the Lions Rodeo Grounds in downtown Cochrane open each day at 11 a.m. and the action begins at 1 p.m. Saturday night's barn dance marks the return of TC & Company by popular demand. Doors open at 7 p.m.

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