After 44 years being hosted at Edmonton's Northlands Coliseum, the Canadian Finals Rodeo now has a new home.  

It was announced last night (January 16) before a packed house at Westerner Park that Red Deer had outbid Saskatoon and Edmonton to become the new home of CFR for the next ten years.

The bid was put together by Westerner Park and the Red Deer and District Chamber of Commerce.  Ben Antifaiff, CEO and GM of Westerner Park said that both groups were honoured to be chosen by the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association to be the show's new home.  "Together, as a community, we should be very proud of this moment and celebrate that the CFR will continue its legacy right here in Central Alberta."

Antifaiff said the rodeo will bring in $20 to $30 million to the Central Alberta economy.

Starting this year, the rodeo will move to a six-night event.  The dates for 2018 are Tuesday, October 30th through Sunday, November 4th.  A youth competition will be added to the show where participants will vie to receive part of $24,000 in scholarships.  Rodeo pros like Airdrie's Jake Vold and Tanner Milan of Cochrane will compete for $1.65 million in prize money at the rodeo. 

CFR President Terry Cooke echoed the excitement shown by the Red Deer group, saying, "We see this as a wonderful new opportunity for the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association, our contestants, sponsors, partners, and fans."

Northlands Coliseum closed last year, forcing the rodeo to look for another home. 

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