They're just so... mini!

Now that the gleeful corndog-induced fog has cleared, and our beer-wiser headaches have passed, let’s talk about what you may have missed or can’t remember at this year’s Stampede. Mini-horse chuckwagon races. Did you know about this?

Well if not, you read that right, miniature horses racing around a track, carrying full-grown cowpokes on mini sized chuckwagons. One of the mini-chuck drivers turned 80 years old on race day. I swear to you. 80 years of age, still racing mini-chucks. And he’ll probably be back next year. That’s pretty hardcore.

And this show, along with all the mini-horse talent shows (there’s even a parade of champions… awwww!) are free with the price of general Stampede admission. I know right!? They’re just giving this away!

If you’re not big on the traditional rodeo and you’re looking for something smaller (pun intended) and less frightening, than I assure this is your new favorite thing. These ponies are fast, strong and adorable. Their little legs pull those carts at lightening speeds. Magic doesn’t begin to describe the half hour you will spend cheering for these half-pints.

The best part is they’re really competing out there. Apparently there’s a whole mini-horse circuit that exists right here in our province. Needless to say, I’m hooked on mini-horse rodeo shows. After the race was over, the drivers actually let us walk out on to the course to pet the horses. If that doesn’t make you squeal for joy, you may have no soul.

All I’m saying is if you’re around for the Calgary Stampede next year, drag yourself away from the mini-donut line and get seats to see the mini-horses. It’s a hidden gem and I promise you won’t regret it.