Alberta Health Services and The Canadian Professional Rodeo Association have responded following a "No More Lockdowns" rodeo event that was held over the weekend in Bowden.

The event, which was to push back against government restrictions on gatherings and the closing of local businesses, saw many enjoying Alberta’s official sport. Some members of the organizing group say that rural residents and local businesses have had enough of endless restrictions announced by the province.

The rodeo was supposed to be held at an official arena in Bowden, but the town's agricultural society pulled the permit for it when it learned the event was going ahead despite COVID-19 rules against it.

As over a thousand spectators attended the event, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney went on Twitter and called it a slap in the face to those who are following the rules.

photo from Jason Kenney Twitter account

Alberta Health Services (AHS)  Minister, Tyler Shandro also responded yesterday.

“Like so many Albertans, I was angered by the rodeo held this weekend near Bowden, in violation of the public health restrictions in place. Since Day 1, we have worked with the CPRA and many other partners to implement protocols and help safely resume the sport, when and where possible. We are proud to work with them, local MLAs and all other stakeholders who work diligently to find ways to protect the health of everyone involved and stop the spread of COVID-19.”

AHS wasn't the only group to criticize the event. Jeff Robson, who is the General Manager for The Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) says that we need to follow the rules to keep the sport going in  the long run.

“The Canadian Professional Rodeo Association is continuing to work with Alberta Health Services, our rodeo committees and other rodeo associations to bring about the return of our sport. As an organization, we are focused on the long-term good for rodeo, the celebration of our western heritage and getting back to doing what we all love as soon as it’s safely possible to do so.”

Health officials say they will continue to work with the rodeo partners going forward to safely resume hosting events with crowds in the future, when possible