Photo courtesy of Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede

By Scott Roblin

Chucks Postponed

Medicine Hat Stampede & WPCA postpone chuckwagon races

Apr 13, 2020 | 10:51 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The global COVID-19 pandemic has claimed another annual sports tradition in the city, as the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede WPCA chuckwagon races have been postponed.

The yearly event was scheduled to have taken place from June 11-14, while makeup dates have not yet been announced.

In a statement, the World Professional Chuckwagon Association called the decision a difficult one to make.

“The health and safety of horses and humans is the number one priority in the WPCA. Sometimes tough decisions need to be made to maintain our high standards. With the full impact of COVID-19 still unknown and to maintain our commitment to the WPCA Code of Care and Animal Safety, decisions related to racing or cancelling, and postponing events are not made lightly.”

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: April 2-5

Apr 02, 2026

What's On

Top five things to do at the Medicine Hat Public Library in April

Apr 01, 2026

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: March 27-29

Mar 27, 2026

“These are challenging times. Like the rest of the world we are following this global concern day by day and evaluating our options as specific scenarios are presented.”

Kurt Bensmiller captured his first Medicine Hat title last year beating Vern Nolin by close to half a second.

The WPCA has either cancelled or postponed its first four events of the season so far with COVID-19 affecting events in Grande Prairie, Saskatoon, High River, and Medicine Hat.

Those who have purchased tickets will still be able to use them for the makeup dates once announced, however the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede are offering ticket exchanges and refunds.

Anyone with questions regarding that process are asked to email mhstampede@mhstampede.com or call 403-527-1234.