The Calgary Stampede has cancelled the nightly Rangeland Derby chuckwagon races and Grandstand Show..Chuckwagon racing has been canceled throughout Western Canada for the summer because of COVID-19, meaning it won’t be held at the Stampede. It’s hoped they’re back in 2022, officials said..A planned Paul Brandt Grandstand Show has also been axed and, instead, the Stampede will host an event with rodeo events, live music, The Young Canadians and fireworks..“The safety of our community is first and foremost as we continue to plan for the 2021 Calgary Stampede. Specific experiences, activities and operations will continue to flex and adapt based on the evolving situation and the guidance provided directly by Alberta Health,” said the Stampede in a Thursday release..“Planning remains underway for Stampede experiences, including the Stampede Rodeo, Midway, Elbow River Camp, live music at Nashville North and The Big Four Roadhouse, BMO Market, Western Showcase, Agriculture showcases and competitions, and much more.”.One of the things that weren’t mentioned in the release is the fate of the Stampede Parade on July 9. The downtown route is normally packed with about 300,000 fun-seekers..When asked about the parade and a possible permit, the city replied only: “The City of Calgary, Alberta Health Services and the Calgary Stampede are continuing to work together to provide the safest possible environment for Calgarians this year while honouring our beloved traditions.”.The Stampede later issued a statement..“The Calgary Stampede continues to work collaboratively with the City of Calgary to determine what the Stampede Parade may look like in July,” it said..“The majority of Stampede experiences will continue to evolve and adapt over the next 6 weeks.”.Dave Naylor is the News Editor of the Western Standard.,dnaylor@westernstandardonline.com,.Twitter.com/nobby7694
