Maskwacis youth will have the opportunity to learn one-on-one with an internationally accomplished, female, First Nations bronc rider, Kaila Mussell in April.
The second annual Mussel Bronc Academy will be held at the Panee Memorial Agriplex in Maskwacis on April 25, 26 and 27.
Executive director Terry Littlechild said he chose Mussell because she’s a First Nation member from B.C., and a carded CPRA and PRCA saddlebronc rider.
“She’s quite the role model,” said Littlechild, adding he’s ridden broncs on the same circuits as her for the past 10 years or so.
The academy went really well the first year with a full slate of students, and with some new additions this year, they’re rearing and ready to go.
Students will learn about their equipment and how to fit it properly to their bodies, practice on appropriate stock, in a positive, supportive environment where everyone cheers them on, said Littlechild.
A new addition this year is a bucking machine, which will allow the young cowboys and cowgirls to try out their skills in a lower stress, controlled way.
The bucking machine is newly-purchased from the States and will arrive next month.
“It will start super slow to a speed they can handle at their potential,” he said.
Students will also get to practice on real, appropriately selected learner stock animals, or “hoppers” rather than hard buckers, said Littlechild.
Mini broncos are also available for younger students.
All ages are welcome and registration is on a first come, first served basis. The first 15 students to pay their deposits will secure their spots. There will be a waiting list as well.
The top student will be awarded with a buckle.
The class costs $500 and the non-refundable deposit is $250.
For more information call Littlechild at 780-335-7696 or check out the Mussell Bronc Academy on Facebook.
“I really want them to know that it is possible for a First Nation,” said Littlehild. “You can make a career out of this and make big money with this talent.”