Not My First Rodeo: Chad Saunders

Tips from longtime Calgarians who have been going to the Stampede since they were kids.

Name: Chad Saunders

Occupation: Manager, Operations and Special Projects at the National Music Centre.

I’ve lived in Calgary since: Birth.

I’ve been going to the Stampede since: 1976.

My favourite Stampede memory is: Spending every Kids’ Day with my buddy Todd (and watching Todd’s brother barf after riding The Rotor).

These days, my typical Stampede includes: Going on the rides with my son.

My favourite Stampede attraction is: The Western Oasis – lots of great art in there. My artist pal Michael Perks has a booth this year as part of the Western Showcase exhibit.

My favourite Stampede food is: I’m a sucker for the midway root beer in the wooden cask. The more that barrel sits in the sun, the better!

My favourite Stampede outfit is: Cowboy boots that actually have stepped in it (and please say “no” to Daisy Duke shorts!)

Three things I recommend doing at the Stampede are: People watching, especially the teenagers who win midway toys for their loved ones and have to carry a giant Pokemon around for the rest of the day; hypnotist Terry Stokes (never gets old); and checking out the barns and agriculture competitions.

One thing you should definitely avoid is: Anyone wearing a headset trying to sell you a new mop or cookware.

Last words of advice: You can’t meet at the clock tower with the giant orange 76 ball anymore, bring a mug to refill with water and ride all the rides.

The Calgary Stampede runs July 3 to 12, 2015. For information visit calgarystampede.com; follow on Twitter @calgarystampede

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