The Great White North. Known for its warm hospitality and chilly mountain air, Canada is also home to some of professional rodeo’s premier athletes. As autumn temperatures drop and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) regular season draws to a close, attention shifts north of the border to the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) and the Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR), traditionally held during the first full week of October.
For more than 50 years, the CFR has served as the pinnacle of professional rodeo in Canada. Established in 1974, the event was created as the championship showcase for the CPRA, bringing together top rodeo athletes from Canada and the United States to compete for coveted CPRA year-end titles.
Today, the CFR is recognized as Canada’s national rodeo championship and one of North America’s premier Western sporting events, bringing together elite athletes, top livestock and substantial payouts.
Over the years, the CFR has evolved while remaining true to its roots. What began as a championship rodeo has grown into a celebration of Western heritage, agriculture, entertainment and community, attracting visitors from across Canada and beyond.
The 2026 edition welcomed 43,903 guests to the arena for a week of competition and celebration, bringing together rodeo athletes, fans, families and visitors to honor Canada’s Western heritage.
At the conclusion of the championship, the 2026 CPRA year-end titles were awarded to a group of athletes whose performances throughout the season and at the CFR secured their places among Canada’s best.
In the bareback riding, Canadian native Orin Larsen, a nine-time National Finals Rodeo (NFR) qualifier, claimed the 2026 CPRA year-end title. Entering the CFR in the lead, Larsen maintained his position through the championship to secure the top honor.
Alberta cowboy Scott Guenthner, a six-time NFR qualifier, captured the steer wrestling title. Entering the CFR with a significant lead, Guenthner maintained his advantage to finish the season as the event’s year-end champion.
Breakaway roper Bradi Whiteside also entered the CFR with a commanding lead. Following a consistent season marked by success, Whiteside secured the year-end title.
Barrel racer Karli Cowie built momentum throughout the CFR, rising to the top of the standings to claim the coveted championship.
In the saddle bronc riding, Alberta native and 2026 NFR qualifier Ben Andersen entered the title race in second place. He continued his strong season with a championship performance, earning top honors in his home province.
Team ropers Kavis Drake and Denim Ross entered the CFR in fourth place and delivered several crucial performances to climb the standings and claim the year-end title.
Bull rider Grady Young battled a competitive field throughout the championship, ultimately rising to the top to secure the title.
In the tie-down roping, Alberta native Austin Hines delivered a series of consistent performances, winning three of the five rounds to earn his first CPRA title.
With their names now etched in CPRA history, these champions have cemented their places among the Great White North’s finest rodeo athletes.