Cochrane has become the first North American photo shoot location for international Dutch sportswear company Rogelli.

Since Tuesday, they have been in town and the surrounding area capturing images for their 2019 winter catalog. Shoot locations have included the Historic Downtown and local pathways and this morning they were at the Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park at sunrise. It's expected to wrap up on Saturday.

Acclaimed Dutch cycling and sports photographer Wouter Roosenboom is behind the lens for Rogelli and you’ll be able to view a sample of what he has captured tonight, Mar. 29, at the Half Hitch Brewing Company at 7 p.m. You’ll also be able to hear more about Rogelli sportswear and meet representatives of the company.

Cochranite Robert Martens, the official Canadian distributor for Rogelli, says it came down to a choice between a Norwegian location and the Cochrane area and our natural features and amenities won over company officials. He estimates about 100 photographs will be available for viewing tonight.

Michael Wagtmans, the third generation of a company founded by his grandfather, is here in Cochrane for the shoot and is making his first visit to Canada. He says the photos will give Cochrane international exposure as a destination for cyclists. Besides being included in the catalog they will be on display promoting their products around the globe. He says a tagline will likely be included to make people aware of the location.

Some of the photos will also be shared with the Cochrane Tourism Association to promote our area.

Professional road bicyclist Rini Wagtmans founded the sportswear company in 1975, initially focusing on cycling and ice skating wear. That has since been expanded to include clothing and accessories for running, triathlon, training and team wear.

Rogelli has a strong connection with our local cycling community as well as sports technology developers 4iiii Innovations.