Cochrane’s Chelsey Yundt is back home after 10 adrenaline-filled days performing at the Calgary Stampede, marking her third year as a Ranch Girl in the world-famous rodeo.
The mother of four played a key role once again this year, taking part in grand entries, sponsorship and victory laps, and working behind the scenes during both daytime rodeo events and nightly shows.
“This year I was one of the Ranch Girls,” said Yundt. “We’re everywhere, opening the show, running laps, riding stage, and the rest of the time we’re just trying to keep up. It’s a whirlwind, but an amazing experience.”
Of course, she wasn’t alone in the spotlight, her trusted horse, Cash, was right there with her.
“I would not be doing what I do without him,” Yundt said. “He keeps me safe, especially when we do that cross in front of the crowd. It only takes one horse spooking to put everyone at risk. These horses are the biggest part of what we do.”
This year’s team included a mix of first-timers and veterans, with riders coming from as far as British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Edmonton, and even Australia.
“It’s a bit nerve-wracking having so many new faces because you can’t really prepare someone, or a horse, for Stampede,” she explained. “But everyone did amazing, the horses stayed healthy, and we all made it through safe. That’s what really matters.”
Yundt, who wasn’t planning to return this year, said it’s the camaraderie and community that pulled her back in.
“You form these really close bonds, some people you see every day for two weeks and then not again until next year,” she said. “That’s what brings me back. the people and the experience.”
Despite the exhaustion, and with four kids and a busy work life waiting at home, she hinted she’ll likely be back again in 2026.
“I told myself last year I was done, but here I am. And I’m already thinking I’ll be back again,” she laughed.
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As for her 12-year-old partner Cash, he’s showing no signs of slowing down either.
“He just knows what to do. He loves it. Honestly, I think he might have more Stampede years left in him than I do!”
And her kids? They’re her biggest fans.
“They all came to watch. They love it,” said Yundt. “Seeing their mom out there in front of that crowd, it’s something special.”
Now back in Cochrane, Yundt says she’s in need of some rest, even if that’s unlikely with life back in full swing.
“I could use about 60 hours of sleep, but that’s not in the cards,” she joked. “We just keep trucking.”