The World Professional Chuckwagon Association is pleased to announce an increase in prize money at the Ponoka Stampede, with the final race Dash for Cash being the headliner.
The Ponoka Stampede Dash for Cash will now be $75,000.00, up 50% from the recent $50,000.00. Along with the final race reward, an increase in prize money will be injected into all heats on the final race day in Ponoka. The prize money increase is reflective of the Ponoka Stampede’s ongoing commitment to chuckwagon racing and animal welfare.
Prize money and tarp sponsorship is the lifeblood of chuckwagon racing; it supports the drivers and their horses and ensures confidence and growth in a sport with high costs.
While sponsorship revenue continues to be a challenge post COVID-19, the hope is that companies will return as sponsors and new companies will invest as the sport navigates a new normal and the rising cost of living. Chuckwagon drivers and participants are feeling the pressure of those rising costs. An increase in financial support ensures best practice care for their horses.
4-Time World Champion Kurt Bensmiller is one of 8 driver directors on the WPCA board and has been representing the WPCA in negotiations with the Ponoka Stampede.
“Ponoka’s continued commitment to the WPCA drivers, families, fans and race horses is appreciated” said Bensmiller, “The Ponoka Stampede is the premiere tour stop for all of us at the WPCA and they continue to make a positive difference.”
Jim Harbidge is the Chuckwagon Director for the Ponoka Stampede Association and shared his thoughts on the dash. “The Ponoka Stampede is proud of our long association with chuckwagon racing, and we are always looking for ways to make our races a better experience for the competitors, fans, and sponsors” said Jim. “The increased prize money and $75,000.00 Dash for Cash brings new excitement to this year’s races and helps the wagon outfits stay viable given their rising costs. We have the world’s best fans and sponsors and we appreciate that they continue to support the Ponoka Stampede and the world’s best chuckwagon outfits.”
Ross Knight won the Ponoka Stampede Dash for Cash in 2022. WATCH THE RACE HERE
The 2023 WPCA Pro Tour at the Ponoka Stampede is scheduled to take place from June 27th to July 2nd.
