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Rodeo takes a more youthful approach

Loggers sports, hot air balloon rides, monster trucks, and a roller derby are just some of the ways the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair is reaching out to a younger demographic in 2011.
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Teens gather in the midway at the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair in this file photo.

Loggers sports, hot air balloon rides, monster trucks, and a roller derby are just some of the ways the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair is reaching out to a younger demographic in 2011.

With just a few weeks to go until the 65th annual rodeo and 122nd country fair May 20-23, preparations are hitting full stride.

“We’re going to reach out more to our youth this year,” general manager Dave Melenchuk told members of the Cloverdale Rodeo and Exhibition Association at the annual general meeting April 5, where he briefly outlined plans for the 2011 event.

The West Coast Lumberjack Show is back. As are monster truck rides for the kids. ReMax will be offering rides in its hot air balloon at least two hours a day during the fair.

There will also be a women’s roller derby throughout the May long weekend – back after a 30-year absence. “It’s so far out it’s in,” Melenchuk said.

The Stetson Bowl, home to five invitational rodeo performances over four days – bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding and ladies barrel racing – will host an outdoor family movie on the Sunday evening.

Other plans include a display commemorating the Surrey RCMP’s 60th anniversary, along with the usual family-friendly fare, such as the art, agri and kid zones, live music performances and Rodeo Week events.

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