old west.  While a number of stories have looked at the origins of this spectacular

sport, one in particular is considered to be the most likely explanation of this fast 

paced competition that fans flock to see at rodeos and racing events across the 

west.

Legend has it that in days gone by, a cowboy's home was his chuckwagon. After 

finishing a long day on the range, he'd return to the wagon for a meal, some songs and 

stories with friends, and a well earned rest. At the end of the week, all the 

cowboys in the area would meet up and head for town for some entertainment. The

last one to town would have to buy the first round at the local saloon, so the 

cowboys were definitely motivated to be as quick as possible in loading up and 

heading out. A fast team and efficient packing were the name of the game then and

still are in todays races. 

Alberta's first chuckwagon racing competition took place at the 1923 Calgary 

Stampede. Racers were urged to imitate the cowboys' breaking of camp, with all 

the speed and skill that is required. These races caught the fancy of Albertans who

wanted to see more racing, with all the horsemanship, technique, excitement and

action the new sport brought to rodeos. Since that time chuckwagon races have 

been a crowd pleasing event every summer.