Organizing the annual Sundre Pro Rodeo requires a massive undertaking that is greatly facilitated by volunteers.
"A lot of hands make light work," said Jim Bowhay, the Sundre Pro Rodeo committee's vice-president.
With barely a couple of months to go before the big annual event brings thousands of people to town in June, plans are so far coming together really well, Bowhay told the Round Up during a phone interview last week, adding that all the stock has already been lined up since November.
"That's something you can't leave aside."
But there remains quite of bit of work yet to be done. Cleaning up the grounds following the winter involves numerous tasks such as whacking weeds, painting touch-ups, checking the bleachers for any needed maintenance, washing seats and hanging banners, to name a few, he said.
"There's a fair bit of labour ó it gets more intense the closer to showtime."
Volunteers are also needed to help run the beer gardens as well as the cabaret. Overall, thousands of hours go into making sure the pro rodeo goes off smoothly. That includes all the time spent preparing ahead of the event as well as the effort required for the cleanup, he said.
"There's just as much work a couple of days after the rodeo!"
This year, fireworks are lined up for two nights in a row in recognition of the Canada 150 celebration, compliments of Jack Robinson, he said.
Volunteers will start rallying weekly to prepare the rodeo grounds every Wednesday evening at about 7 p.m. starting towards the end of May. Alternatively, Bowhay said he could also be reached by calling 403-994-0517.
Organizers could always use additional hands willing to alleviate the workload, he said.
"We never want to turn down a volunteer. Come with your working duds on and a smile and we'll be glad to see you!"
