The 2024 Battle of the Foothills in High River wrapped up Sunday afternoon after 4 days of barrel turns and homestretch drives. Chanse Vigen may have won the battle on the racetrack, but it’s the High River Agricultural Society (HRAS) who is celebrating beyond the track.
Fans filled the stands to experience chuckwagon racing’s best drivers and horses and in the end, both the WPCA and the HRAS came out victorious. I looked at the attendance numbers Monday night and they are quite staggering” said HRAS treasurer Greg Laycraft, “Ticket sales versus 2023 were up over 50%.”
It wasn’t just the increase in fans that impressed Laycraft, their volunteer support almost doubled with ticket scanners and additional support in the beer gardens being two key areas. “Our infield crew was around the same and as wonderful as ever” expressed Laycraft, “Madysin has always looked after that and takes a lot of pride in her role.”
HRAS president Greg Monteith along with Treasurer Laycraft both expressed their gratitude for all involved. “We are so appreciative of our rejuvenated and energetic staff and committee members, who came together as a team and made this event successful. The increasing number of our incredible volunteers made a positive impact. Without them, an event of this size could not be accomplished.”
A record-setting number of sponsors stepped up to be part of the 2024 Battle of the Foothills. Combine the sponsor support with all of the fans who came to High River in droves, and the 2025 Battle of the Foothills could continue to build into one of the premiere events on the WPCA Pro Tour.
