Boots hit the dirt: CCA Finals Rodeo in North Battleford

Two sisters from southern Saskatchewan are riding high after claiming the ladies and junior girls’ barrel racing championships at the 63rd annual Canadian Cowboys Association Rodeo in North Battleford.

For 14-year-old Lexi Cote from Yellow Grass, the wins are proof that determination and time in the saddle can take you a long way.

“If you put your mind to it, you can do anything you want,” she said.

Her younger sister, 11-year-old Livi Cote, agreed, adding that becoming a champion at her age is a pretty big deal.

Livi Cote and Lexi Cote take on the CCA Finals Rodeo in North Battleford. (Image Credit: Alyssa Rudolph/ battlefordsNOW)

The sisters have been riding horses since they were toddlers, growing up around the arena and honing their skills one ride at a time. Those early days in the saddle have now paid off in a big way, with both sisters finding success on Western Canada’s largest semi-professional rodeo circuit, competing against riders from Sask., Man., Alta. and B.C.

But for Lexi, the real prize goes beyond her shiny, new buckle. It’s also about the four-legged partner who helped her get there.

“It means a lot to be here!” she said. “My horse … he’s literally my everything. For him, this is pretty special.”

The CCA Finals Rodeo draws up to 10,000 spectators each year, bringing the stands to life with the spirit of western heritage while supporting young competitors and strengthening community connections.

As the dust settled on a busy weekend of rodeo action, the Cote sisters rode out with championship titles and a reminder that sometimes, the biggest wins begin with a little girl, a horse and a dream.