The High Country Rodeo team will host high school Cowboys and Cowgirls from Southern Alberta for a weekend of competition at the High River Fair Grounds on May 14 and 15.

The rodeo will begin with a grand entry ceremony at 10am on Saturday and 11am on Sunday and admission is free for everyone.

Nicole Moore, Event Coordinator and Mother of a Cowgirl says it's a great way to support future stars of rodeo.

"They have about ten rodeos a year and then they compete on a provincial scale and we're up in Grand Prairie on June 4th and 5th for the top ten kids in each of the rodeo events that qualify."

She says on Saturday there will be big raffle prizes that include a horseback riding adventure in the Foothills and an introductory flight lesson from the Calgary Flying Club.

She says the biggest prize is a family pass for a behind-the-scenes tour of Heartland and a to spend a day with the award-winning Heartland Cast and Crew.

Cowgirl and participant Makenna Moore says she loves the sport and has been at it for eleven years.

"I do barrel racing, cutting, pole bending, goat tying however barrel racing is my main focus  especially since it's the only thing that is sanctioned Pro Rodeo."

She says she loves the sport and can still feel the adrenaline kick in come show time.

"Some anxiety and nervousness and the pressure allows us to perform better because when we know the stakes are higher it puts everyone on their "A" game.

She says the organizers of the  rodeo are pleased to provide this event free of charge and ask that people attending bring at least one non perishable food item for the High River Food Bank.

Raffle Tickets will be avaibale for sale at the event.

For more information click here: High Country Rodeo