Last week, breakaway ropers competed for spots in the Calgary Stampede Rodeo, and this week, female barrel racers took the spotlight at the Nutrien Centre at Stampede Park. During the second round of qualifiers, Heidi Gunderson from Murdock, Minnesota, clinched her spot with a remarkable time of 16.55 seconds on her horse, "Wonder If I’m Lucky." Gunderson expressed her excitement, stating that qualifying for Calgary is a dream come true. In total, 67 entries participated in the event. Rae Lynn Armstrong from Bassano, Alberta, who transitioned from trick riding to barrel racing, did not qualify this year but is determined to return. Other notable qualifiers included Sydney Graham and Jaylan Neatherlin, both from Texas. Catherine Asmussen from Laredo, Texas, won the shootout and will also compete at this year’s Stampede, highlighting the competitive spirit of the event and the aspirations of the athletes involved.