Not surprisingly, the Kindersley Rodeo Committee announced earlier today that the annual rodeo, which was set to take place at the end of May, has been cancelled due to COVID-19.
Amanda Statnyk is the president of the Kindersley Rodeo Committee talked about their decision.
“There is just so much uncertainty out there right now and for us, to have asked businesses for sponsorship when they are trying to navigate through this pandemic, it just didn’t sit right – This and, of course with the public health orders, it was a tough decision but one that we all made together and we just want people to stay safe during these times and help support our local businesses as much as possible.”
Statnyk added that many of our local businesses are doing what they can to help support local charities and she said, she believes that is where the priorities need to be as a community.
All sponsors that have already provided funds for the event, will receive a 100 per cent refund said Statnyk, “We will be refunding those businesses who already sponsored the event and then we will start to plan in the fall to bring back the rodeo for 2021,” confirming that this is not a postponement, but a cancellation for the year.
Eston Indoor Rodeo also announced earlier this month that they too will be cancelling their 2020 rodeo, stating “Thank you for understanding and we can’t wait to be back in 2021 with another amazing rodeo for you”.
As the Kindersley Rodeo is funded through sponsors, Statnyk said this cancellation does not affect the committee directly, however, as a sport there will undoubtedly be revenue loss from booked talent to stock contractors, adding to the economic burden of COVID-19.
Nonetheless, the decision to cancel the rodeo is one that is disappointing, yet responsible and likely, unavoidable.
Statnyk said they are looking forward to bringing the rodeo back to Kindersley whenever it is safe to do so.
Tue, Apr 23, 7:00 PM
