Two former Cochrane Lions Rodeo Queens are among seven women hoping to become the next Calgary Stampede Princess.
Kyla Lightfoot, who held the Cochrane Lions Rodeo Queen title in 2023, and Sonia van der Burgh, the 2026 Cochrane Lions Rodeo Queen, are both in the running for the 2027 Calgary Stampede Princess title.
The next Calgary Stampede Princess will be crowned at a private event in late October.
From Cochrane to the Stampede
Lightfoot has continued her rodeo royalty journey since representing Cochrane in 2023.
After her time as Cochrane Lions Rodeo Queen, she went on to become Miss Rodeo Airdrie in 2024 before taking on the title of Miss Ponoka Stampede 2025.
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Van der Burgh recently wrapped up her year as Cochrane Lions Rodeo Queen, handing over the crown to incoming Queen Amy Carter at the annual Cochrane Lions Labour Day Rodeo last month.
Now, both former Cochrane Queens are taking the next step in their rodeo royalty journeys.
Seven Contestants in the Running
Lightfoot and Van der Burgh are among seven contestants vying for the 2027 Calgary Stampede Princess title.
The other contestants are Ava, Danielle, Katie, Rory and Scout.
The seven ladies in the running to be the next Calgary Stampede Princess. Calgary Stampede Princess.
The Calgary Stampede Royalty program includes both a First Nations Princess and a Stampede Princess. The reigning Royalty serve as ambassadors for the Calgary Stampede, attending hundreds of community and Stampede events while celebrating Western heritage, culture and community spirit.
A Year of Community and Development
The Stampede Princess role also provides opportunities for professional and personal development, with contestants receiving coaching and mentorship in areas including public speaking and horsemanship.
The Royalty are supported by dedicated committees throughout their terms as they take part in community events and work toward their personal goals.
For Lightfoot and Van der Burgh, the potential next chapter would add another milestone to their growing connections with rodeo royalty and the Calgary Stampede.