Welcome
The Santiam Canyon Stampede was established in 1997 and in 1999, ownership
transitioned to the community, and the organization was restructured as a nonprofit
corporation. This reorganization led to the formation of the Stayton/Sublimity Rodeo
Association, Inc., which became the official owner and governing body of the
Stampede.
Over the years, the Stampede has grown into a highly anticipated annual event, known
for delivering quality rodeo competition, strong community involvement, and family-
friendly entertainment. The rodeo consistently featured traditional events such as bull
riding, barrel racing, saddle bronc, and team roping, attracting talented contestants and
enthusiastic crowds.
Today, the Santiam Canyon Stampede is recognized not only for its exciting rodeo
action, but also for its vibrant atmosphere, vendor participation, and live entertainment
that extend the experience beyond the arena. The event remains a proud community
tradition, supported by dedicated volunteers and local partners, and continues to
celebrate the heritage and spirit of the Santiam Canyon region.
RODEO BASIC OVERVIEW
Rodeo 101
Roughstock
In the roughstock events bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding a contestant’s score is equally dependent upon his performance and the animal’s performance. To earn a qualified score, the cowboy, while using only one hand, must stay aboard a bucking horse or bull for eight seconds. If the rider touches the animal, himself or any of his equipment with his free hand, he is disqualified.
Saddle Bronc & Bareback
In saddle bronc and bareback riding, a cowboy must “mark out” his horse; that is, he must exit the chute with his spurs set above the horse’s shoulders and hold them there until the horse’s front feet hit the ground after the initial jump out of the chute. Failing to do so results in disqualification.
Timed Events
In steer wrestling and the roping events, calves and steers are allowed a head start. The competitor, on horseback, starts in a three-sided fenced area called a box. The fourth side opens into the arena. A rope barrier is stretched across that opening and is tied to the calf or steer with a breakaway loop. Once the calf or steer reaches the head-start point – predetermined by the size of the arena – the barrier is automatically released. If a cowboy breaks that barrier, a 10-second penalty is added.