The Calgary Stampede experienced an historic night as its Rangeland Derby canvas auction raised a record $6,075,000. This figure significantly surpasses the previous record of $4,015,000 set in 2012.
Individual chuckwagon canvases also saw record-breaking bids. Driver Rae Croteau Jr.'s canvas commanded a staggering $550,000 from Bar L5 Ranch, nearly doubling the prior single-canvas record of $300,000.
Croteau Jr. expressed shock and excitement, stating the support "sets you up for the year," covering not just race expenses but also off-season needs and family activities.
Heidi and Darren Lindgren of Bar L5 Ranch attributed their winning bid to a desire to showcase local pride, suggesting a shift from international event sponsorships to supporting Canadian heritage.
Stuart O’Connor, chair of the Calgary Stampede, highlighted the palpable energy in the room and the addition of eight new bidders as positive indicators for the event and chuckwagon racing. The auction's success is also viewed as a bellwether for the local economy, especially in light of recent oil price surges.
The Calgary Stampede runs from July 3 to 12.