Three full days of Indian Rodeo in the Nicola Valley, a full complement of spectators each day and $277,075 in prize money made the Richest Indian Rodeo the richest purse in Indian Rodeo history. Close to 500 contestants from throughout North America, coming from as far away as New Mexico, Florida, Alberta, Saskatchewan and BC. competed  in the wildcard event. Cowboys took home a total of $277,075 in prize money making the Merritt, British Columbia event the richest rodeo ever. Saturday and Sunday exceeded 2000 spectators each day.

“We applaud the Nicola Tribal Association staff and volunteers for their efforts, their vision and meeting their goal for three days” says Edison Bitsui International Indian Finals Rodeo Commissioner.

The financial strain from cool and wet weather affecting the concerts and Friday’s events had a direct impact on the Monday’s performance.

The rodeo committee decided it was in the best interest of everybody involved not to continue with the final performance. The committee met its goal up to Sunday night and did not want to risk a final performance which would incur a financial burden on the committee and their contestants. Final performance entry fees were reimbursed to the contestants and all financial obligations where met by the rodeo committee up to Sunday night.

“To respond to some of the comments being made regarding the event, I would like to clarify that no one was short paid and Monday fees were re-imbursed. Contract personal and contestants have been paid in full.” says Bitsui.

Bitsui added “The committee had exceeded its goal and the attendance made it a history-making event for Indian rodeos.”

Etelka Gillespie
Merritt Herald
Merritt BC