The fifth annual Cochrane Western Gaming Show is this Saturday and Sunday, along with Heritage Days at the Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat.
Dan Brunet is the creator and organizer of the competition at which horse riders from across Northern Ontario go for points from the National Barrel Horse Association.
Brunet says the Habitat location and the heritage days make the gaming show unique.
“The location is definitely an attraction on its own,” he states. “Last year, we hosted about 15-hundred people who showed up. We’re running anywhere from 35 to 40 riders.”
The competition features barrel racing, pole bending and a dash for cash.
A diplomatic Brunet says it’s difficult to pinpoint a favourite competitor.
“Actually, everybody’s there and they put their heart and soul into it, so I think every rider here is here for a purpose. They’re here for a good time, they’re here to make the crowd go wild.”
There is no admission fee Saturday or Sunday.
Brunet calls the weekend Cochrane’s biggest summer attraction that he hopes keeps growing.


