CFR wraps with 43,903 spectators, 12 championship titles, and support for children with serious illness
The 52nd Canadian Finals Rodeo at Rogers Place featured elite athletes, 120 volunteers across 400 shifts, and 15 families benefited through the Golden Circle of Champions program.
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The 52nd Canadian Finals Rodeo drew 43,903 spectators to Rogers Place from October 7 to October 11, producing 12 elite rodeo athletes who won National Championship titles.
The event mobilized 120 volunteers—ranging in age from 15 to 85—who filled more than 400 shifts across the CFR, the Cinch Canadian Country EXPO, and Edmonton EXPO Centre. The Premier's Pancake Breakfast presented by Direct Energy served 1,300 people.
A cornerstone of the week was the Golden Circle of Champions program, which supported 15 families with children facing pediatric cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Participating families received a special rodeo experience, including dedicated event space and time with cowboys and cowgirls.
Forty local businesses participated in the CFR Week Feature Partner Program, offering 122 western-inspired experiences, menu items, and specials across the city.
Arlindo Gomes, vice-president and executive producer of the CFR at Explore Edmonton, said in a Sunday news release: "There was a real energy across Edmonton during CFR Week. The city showed up, the arena was buzzing, and we welcomed visitors who came to see the best rodeo athletes in the country compete while experiencing everything Edmonton has to offer."
The 2026 National Champions were: Orin Larsen (Bareback), Scott Guenthner (Steer Wrestling), Bradi Whiteside (Ladies Breakaway Roping), Karli Cowie (Ladies Barrel Racing), Ben Andersen (Saddle Bronc), Kavis Drake (Team Roping Heading), Denim Ross (Team Roping Heeling), and Austin Hines (Tie Down Roping).
The CFR first came to Edmonton in 1974 and was hosted in the city until 2018, when it moved to Red Deer under a 10-year contract. The rodeo was cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19 and returned to Edmonton in 2021.
The facts
How many people attended the 52nd Canadian Finals Rodeo?
43,903 spectators attended the 52nd Canadian Finals Rodeo at Rogers Place from October 7 to October 11, 2026.
How many volunteers worked at the CFR?
120 volunteers, ranging in age from 15 to 85, filled more than 400 shifts across the Canadian Finals Rodeo, the Cinch Canadian Country EXPO, and Edmonton EXPO Centre.
What is the Golden Circle of Champions program?
The Golden Circle of Champions program supported 15 families with children facing pediatric cancer and other life-threatening illnesses, providing them with a special rodeo experience including dedicated event space and time with cowboys and cowgirls.
How many National Championship titles were awarded at the CFR?
Twelve elite rodeo athletes won 2026 National Championship titles across events including Bareback, Steer Wrestling, Ladies Breakaway Roping, Ladies Barrel Racing, Saddle Bronc, Team Roping Heading, Team Roping Heeling, and Tie Down Roping.
