MIDALE — The Bull Riders of Canada made their annual stop in Midale on Aug. 1 for the annual Bull Bash.
The Midale Rodeo Association and Crossfire Bull Riding hosted the competition, which had 20 bull riders entertaining a crowd of more than 1,100 people. Kahl Wasilow of Maple Creek was the big winner, scoring an 87 for lasting eight seconds aboard a steer named Route 66. Westen Wade of Sylvan Lake, Alta., was second with a 77. He had the only other successful ride in the final.
"The last guy of the night made an unbelievable ride and scored 87 points to win the rodeo," said Midale Rodeo Association member Cody Martin.
Twenty riders were entered for the first round. The top eight riders advanced to the short-go semifinal round; Martin noted some of them didn't last the full eight seconds on a bull but they had the longest times for those who were bucked. Then two advanced to the final.
"The bulls won the night. Not a lot of guys were able to do the full eight seconds, but there were just enough to make it a good show," said Martin.
He praised the calibre of the riders and the animals. Several different companies supplied the rough stock.
"The bulls for the majority, decided they were winning. But there's lots of extremely good talent in these riders these days," said Martin.
Intermission entertainment included mutton busting that had 25 youths entered, and wild pony races with six teams competing. A family-friendly cabaret followed with about 300 people showing up to enjoy the music from Moody Hollow.
The Bull Bash was part of a busy weekend of rodeo activities in Midale. A ranch rodeo, a performance by the Truco Trick Riders and a team roping event were held Aug. 2. Barrel racing wrapped up activities Aug. 3.
The activities are an important fundraiser, Martin said. A Calcutta associated with the Bull Bash brought in nearly $18,000; the winner won $8,800, Martin said.
Proceeds from the Bull Bash and other activities go towards upgrades to the rodeo grounds and facilities. Martin said the Saskatchewan Day long weekend is an important time for the rodeo association and the Souris Valley Antiques Association, which hosted its Pioneer Echoes activities.
"This is a huge weekend for the town of Midale, between us and the museum guys at the antique association," said Martin. "It's a fun-filled, full weekend of excitement for everyone, and bull-riding is just a phenomenal thing that everyone looks forward to."
