The rain didn't stop the action at the Williams Lake Stampede Friday, June 27.
In front of a good-size crowd, rodeo athletes made their way through the mud and liquid sunshine to put on a great show.
For the grand entry, the Xeni Gwet'in Youth Wagon and Horse Ride group made their way into the arena with drumming led by Tl'esqox First Nation's Payel Laceese.
Jimmy Lulua, former Xeni Gwet'in Chief, said the ride is 17 years strong.
"This has always been about the kids and the youth and reconnecting them to their culture and to their land. Many of these wagons have passed over 200 kilometres of our traditional territory," he said.
He introduced Roy Mulvahill in the front wagon who has been part of the ride to help keep the tradition alive.
"He's probably one of the last people who still has horse team and wagons and uses them daily."
Next up, the Wild West Riders paid tribute to Every Child Matters. Two of the riders carried the Canadian and the American flags, proceeding around the arena while Samantha Fradette sang both national anthems.
From there the evening unfolded with the bareback, tie-down roping, ladies breakaway roping, saddle bronc, steer wrestling, junior steer riding, ladies barrel racing, wild cowgirl race, team roping, bull riding and mountain racing events.
Rodeo action continues Saturday with a new time for the rodeo at 3:45 p.m. Gates open at 3 p.m.
