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Chuckwagon controversy

Broadcast Date: July 14, 1986

It may be the most popular event in the Calgary Stampede but it's also the most controversial. The Rangeland Derby has attracted a flood of attention due to some spectacular spills over the years. The worst accident happens on July 10, 1986, when one of the chuckwagons cuts off another, leading to a terrible pile-up. It results in the death of six horses. This year is particularly bad for the animals.

At the end of the 10-day event, 12 animals have been euthanized. Their deaths prompt thousands of calls from across Canada to the Humane Society in Calgary. Angry animal lovers demand action, calling for the ban of the chuckwagon races. "It is shocking," says veterinarian and president of the Calgary Humane Society, Dr. Allan Board.

But Calgary is a rodeo town, which makes it harder to go after the Stampede organizers as discussed in this CBC Radio clip. The Stampede injects over $125 million into Calgary's economy. While calls for an outright ban are dismissed, the 1986 accident leads to new rules and regulations, making the chuckwagon races safer for all.

Chuckwagon controversy

• New safety regulations for the "chucks" include placing the stove rack inside the wagon away from the horses' legs, requiring barrels that collapse when hit and instituting random drug and alcohol testing for drivers. Racers who endanger the lives of animals will face heavy fines and a possible ban from the sport.

• Rangeland Derby consists of nine heats of four wagons around a half-mile track. It has one of the biggest rodeo prizes totalling $550,000.

Chuckwagon controversy

Medium: Radio

Program: The World At Six

Broadcast Date: July 14, 1986

Guest(s): Ron Carey

Host: Bob Oxley
Reporter: Leslie Kramer

Duration: 2:05

Last updated:
Aug. 14, 2003