As the sun shone through Sunday morning, Sept. 18, the Alix agricultural grounds were crowded with horses and trailers – Stettler Gymkhana was hosting its final session, which was a culmination of its summer rodeo events.
Points for all five gymkhanas throughout summer had been totalled and the prizes were awarded for the overall season champions.
For the six and under category, the lil' tyke champion was Luke Hronek of Erskine, followed by Addison Rock, Wyatt Elder and Cruz Lilico.
In the seven to 10 age category, the peewee champion was Kayla Hronek of Erskine, followed by Denver Barritt, Haylee Weatherly and Rylee Jones.
In the 11-14 age category, the champion was Emily Barritt, followed by Lexa Bergstrom, Skylar Hymers and Alyssa McLaughlin.
In then 15-18 age category, Taylor Kiemele placed first, followed by Rachael Deaver.
In the open category, Tammy Hronek of Erskine placed first, followed by Jana Nilson, Marty Lilico and Jayme Lilico.
The most improved award went to Alecsandra Oprea in the seven to 10 age group.
Explaining why she moved the location, main event organizer Tammy Hronek said, "Alix provided us with a great facility to host the event and it has a beautiful hall where we were able to set up all our tables of prizes, silent auction items as well as lunch."
According to Hronek, the Stettler Gymkhana Club has grown with every event.
"And even yesterday at our finals we had new members and everyone was already wondering when the next gymkhana is," said Hronek. "In fact, we had our highest turnout yesterday with 71 entries, with 50 of those competitors under the age of 14."
Hronek added that it was a great family event for rodeo community to participate in.
"Thank you to all our sponsors," said Hronek. "Honestly, thank you just isn't big enough to say to all of our local sponsors who donated cash for our prizes or items for our silent auction tables."
Hronek said that had it not been for the local support and cooperation, it would not be possible to get this event off the ground.
"Thank you for your continued support of our club," said Hronek.