A Rodeo Tradition Returns: Cloverdale Rodeo Seeks Riders for Official Grand Entry Team.
An exciting rodeo tradition is making its return! The Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair is bringing back the official Grand Entry Team, and we’re looking for skilled, enthusiastic riders to be part of this special moment in Cloverdale Rodeo history.
The Grand Entry is one of rodeo’s most celebrated traditions, bringing riders, horses and flags into the arena to officially open the show. It’s a proud display of western heritage that sets the stage for the world-class rodeo competition to follow.
We are proud to introduce the Cloverdale Rodeo Cowgirls, our new in-house Grand Entry Team. It has been many years since the Cloverdale Rodeo had its own team, the Cloverdale Thunder, and this marks an exciting new chapter for our organization. The Cowgirls will represent the tradition, pride, and western heritage that define the Cloverdale Rodeo while showcasing the exceptional horsewomen in our community.
We also extend our sincere gratitude to Bit A Bling for their years of dedication and partnership. Their contributions helped create unforgettable Grand Entry experiences, and their role in Cloverdale Rodeo history will always be valued.
Ready to Ride? Apply Today!
With the return of an official Grand Entry Team, the Cloverdale Rodeo is excited to add another memorable element to the rodeo experience while celebrating the riders and horses who help keep this tradition alive.
Whether you’ve dreamed of riding into the Cloverdale Rodeo arena or are looking for a new opportunity to share your passion for horses and western traditions, we’d love to hear from you.
Complete the Grand Entry Team application form to get started:
About the Cloverdale Rodeo Grand Entry Team
The Cloverdale Rodeo Cowgirls will be the official Grand Entry team and ambassadors for the Cloverdale Rodeo, representing the organization at the annual rodeo and throughout the year.
The program will celebrate women in western culture, horsemanship, community, leadership and education while creating a pathway for young women to become involved in the rodeo and its future.
The Cowgirls will serve as:
- Grand Entry performers
- Cloverdale Rodeo ambassadors
- Community representatives
- Youth mentors
- Western culture advocates
- Future leaders of the organization
The goal is to create a program that becomes an important part of the identity and tradition of the Cloverdale Rodeo.
Grand Entry Team Tryouts
Riders interested in joining the team are invited to submit an application and participate in the upcoming tryouts.
Tryout Dates:
- Monday, November 9, 2026
- Monday, November 16, 2026
- Monday, November 23, 2026
Tryout Times:
- Gates open at 6:30 PM
- Practice begins at 7:00 PM
Requirements:
- A valid Horse Council membership is required.
Additional Information
Plans for the official Grand Entry Team are still being finalized, including details about the audition process, schedules, and rider responsibilities. Additional information will be shared with applicants as plans are confirmed.
Interested riders are encouraged to register their interest by completing the application form. Further details and updates will be emailed directly to prospective riders as part of the audition process.
Preliminary Outline & Program Structure – Phase 1 (2027)
Cloverdale Cowgirls — Adult/Young Adult Grand Entry Team
The official Grand Entry and Ambassador team. The core of the program would be a select group of Cowgirls who represent the Cloverdale Rodeo during the annual event. 12-16, depending on flag numbers and requirements. It is important to note that this is not a drill team!
The Grand Entry riders will be expected to perform basic maneuvers and patterns in the arena while riding at a fast pace, mostly more than a gallop. These will not be elaborate performances, but they will be done at a fast pace, including the victory laps.
Responsibilities
Members would be required to:
- Audition for a position on the team (Provide their own horses)
- Attend mandatory practices starting in January each year
- Participate in horse and horsemanship preparation (Potentially cattle handling as well)
- Perform in the rodeo’s Grand Entry every May long weekend
- Participate in opening ceremonies and special presentations (potentially not horseback)
- Represent the Cloverdale Rodeo as Ambassadors when needed
- Participate in designated community appearances (kick-off party, parade, bed races, pancake breakfasts etc.)
- Assist with youth programming (e.g. training, mentoring, leading)
- Attend promotional/photo opportunities
- Promote the Cloverdale Rodeo in a positive and professional manner
- Follow established safety and horsemanship standards
Performance
The team could become a recognizable signature of the Cloverdale Rodeo.
Grand Entry could include: Canadian Anthem, American Anthem, Full Team sponsor flag presentation etc.
Leadership
The CR Cowgirls will become an official program within the Cloverdale Rodeo Exhibition Association. There will be a committee chair assigned to the program. The Committee Chair will work with the Rodeo Producer/manager directly on all aspects ertaining to rodeo performance and production as well as logistics i.e. stalling, parking etc.
The Committee Chair will be a part of the organizations leadership and will work directly with the Board Executive on all areas pertaining to brand, marketing, promotion, external events, youth and volunteering.
The goal is to have a cohesive and clear line of communication for the program and all its participants.
Program Structure – Phase 2 (2028)
Jr Cloverdale Cowgirls — Development Program
A youth component designed to introduce younger participants to horses, rodeo, western culture, volunteering and leadership. Jr. Ambassadors in training.
Stay tuned for more information!
We’re excited to welcome this tradition back to the Cloverdale Rodeo and can’t wait to see our new Grand Entry Team ride into the arena this May Long Weekend!