Banff-Airdrie Maverick Party candidate Tariq Elnaga is holding a unique free event to promote both his federal political party and Western heritage.

A barrel racers and team roping poker is being featured at the outdoor arena of the Cochrane and District Agricultural Society on Sunday, Aug. 8 starting at 3 p.m. and will wrap up by 6:30 p.m.

As of Tuesday, Elnaga said all the timeslots for roping teams were filled, and a waiting list has formed. Only a couple of spots remained for barrel racers.

"We've got a lot of local area contestants and quite a few pros as well, so it'll be a really good show," says Elnaga. "There's a lot of cool activities. You can take a ton of pictures, engage with the contestants, and more as we go through the day."

Elnaga is a heeler for one of the roping teams, and Dave Jeffer, the Maverick Party candidate in the Fort St. John, B.C. area, will also be competing.

"I love the sport of rodeo. It's an extension of the ranching world, and an extension of the Western way of life."

He believes staging the event is a natural fit for his candidacy.

"It's a great way to engage with both the Maverick party and get to see some Western action. I just can't wait to meet the folks that come out and also engage and learn about the Maverick Party and why we're the only party that speaks exclusively for the West."

Interim Maverick Party leader Jay Hill will be among party members in attendance.

A food truck will be on-site, and there's an indoor social area in case of adverse weather. Elnaga will be auctioneering off a couple of horse riding classes.