This Saturday evening (August 19) Cochrane will be a sea of cowboy boots and hats, as Cochrane Classic Bull Riding comes to town.

A new partnership and venue has organizer Jason Borton fired up. "We're up at the AG grounds with the Cochrane Fair, I think it's a great partnership. We will feed off each other really good. They needed something for their Saturday night event and all the people coming to the fair is going to introduce me to a whole new crowd of people too."

It is the 17th year for the event which promises many thrills and spills, Borton shares he is inviting a new group to come participate. "This year I am inviting the top 15 bull riders of Bull Riders Canada (BRC) they get on two-head (riders ride twice) and they are riding for $8000 and then I bring the top four contestants back to ride for a $1000 and a buckle. The group has been really great, they are really excited and think this is going to be one of their showcased events."

Cochrane Classic Bull Riding has always pulled together a large crowd, attracting anywhere from 1500-2000 spectators. With the new venue, Borton anticipates an even larger crowd. 

After the main event, you can stick around to see rising Canadian music star Blake Reid perform. "He is a pretty big name in the Canadian music industry, he has had a few awards in the Canadian country music world. He is excited and I am excited to get Blake back."

This year if you buy your ticket before Friday at Dry Cleaning By Dave or Tony's Western Wear you will also receive free entry into the Cochrane Fair. If you buy at the gate you will need to pay both admissions. Tickets are $30 for adults, $20 for students ages 5-17 and seniors over 65.

Gates open at 6 pm and the top riders and rankest bulls on the circuit showcase at 7.