Canadian Western Agribition wrapped up another successful year, with organizers reporting what could be a record-breaking attendance and strong sales. Neither snow nor biting cold could keep the crowds away from the fifty-third Agribition last week, as early numbers indicate record attendance for the six-day event and visitors from more than 60 countries. Early results suggest the event surpassed last year’s attendance of 142,807 people. Over 200 international buyers attended despite challenging winter weather conditions. .Saskatchewan faces $743.5 million deficit, agricultural ‘challenges’ push deficit up.One challenge pointed out by organizers was a decline in student attendance. While Agribition traditionally welcomed around 10,000 students annually, attendance dropped to approximately 5,000 students this year. Agribition President Michael Latimer attributed this to increased transportation costs and logistical difficulties.Latimer pointed to doubled transportation costs and logistical issues as primary factors. .Saskatchewan unveils comprehensive affordability plan .Despite official numbers showing approximately 5,000 students, Agribition CEO Shaun Kindopp believes the actual number was higher, with many students arriving via city buses, vans, and home schools. “We’ve had some schools that have jumped on the city buses to come in. We have home schools. We’ve had schools come in vans,” said Kindopp.“It’s not from lack of interest,” Latimer assured, emphasizing Agribition’s commitment to being an educational platform for future generations and new Canadians interested in agriculture.Agribition ended on November 30 after a day of events showcasing the agricultural industry's best and the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association’s Maple Leaf Finals Rodeo in the evening..OLDCORN: Western Standard is not ‘alt-right,’ despite woke columnist’s accusations.“Everything’s been great. There’s been a lot of smiling faces. People are happy. It’s a super positive event and we’re having a lot of fun,” said Kindopp.Latimer, overseeing his first show, highlighted the strong participation in beef cattle shows and the presence of visitors from over 60 countries. Notably, an Angus cow fetched $72,500 from an American buyer, marking the week’s highest sale.Latimer emphasized the extensive efforts behind the scenes, including trade missions and collaboration with breed associations to ensure the best genetics were available at the show..IN-DEPTH: The state of wild horses in Alberta .“It doesn’t just magically happen. It’s a lot of work that goes into it, but then making sure that we have the best genetics available here at the show, and the sale managers collecting those to make sure they’re in the sale, also helps,” said Latimer. Sales extended to various countries, including the United States, Australia, Poland, and New Zealand, showing Agribition’s global reach.Kindopp credited the success to the dedicated staff and volunteers, highlighting the significant economic impact the event had on the province of Saskatchewan and the city of Regina. “We’re proud of the role that we can play in the tourism industry,” said Kindopp..WATCH: Sask photographer crosses rapids to capture stunning Milky Way shot .Agribition also celebrated the twentieth year of Beef Supreme, featuring 100 animals from 15 shows competing to be judged the best of the best. The event not only showcased agricultural excellence but also reinforced Agribition’s pivotal role in fostering community engagement and advancing the agricultural industry.As Agribition 2024 concluded, preparations for Agribition 2025, scheduled for November 24-29, are already underway.
