Fred Whitfield wins tie-down roping at Calgary Stampede

CALGARY – Fred Whitfield continued his success at the Calgary Stampede on Wednesday, winning Pool B’s tie-down roping event in 6.7 seconds.

Last year, the 44-year-old Texan became only the third cowboy in the world to have surpassed $3 million in career rodeo earnings.

“I really didn’t want to gamble, but that calf was right there in front of me,” said the eight-time World Champion of Wednesday’s event. “I got a great start and that calf was right there, and I roped him, and turned him around, and tried not to make any mistakes.”

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Whitfield’s US$5,500 from this performance, plus his second place cheque on his opening day means he’s already won $10,000 to sit atop the standings.

“It’s a long deal and we got a couple more head to run here. My biggest deal is to get into the Sunday and not have to go in the Wildcard Round, because there’s a lot of pressure there,” said Whitfield. “They only take two guys, so your chances of getting out of that deal are slim to none with all the guys that are already seeded there.”

Also, William Lowe won the bareback event on Wednesday with 87.50 points. Dusty LaValley of Bezanson, Alta., was fourth with 84.00 points.

Caleb Sanderson took first in bull riding with 88.50 points, while Scott Schiffner of Strathmore, Alta., was third with 84.50.

Sydni Blanchard won the women’s barrel race with a time of 17.41 seconds and Cody Wright was victorious in the saddle bronc event with 86.00 points.

Stockton Graves and Casey Martin tied for first in steer wrestling with twin times of 3.8 seconds. Cody Cassidy of Donalda, Alta., was third in 3.9 seconds and Tanner Milan of Cochrane, Alta., was fourth in 4.2.