For the third time, Century Downs Casino will be hosting the World Professional Chuckwagon Association (WPCA) finals that will feature some of the world’s top chuckwagon drivers.
The five-day finals event will take place Aug. 23 to 27, wrapping up the WPCA Pro Tour. The race hands out one of the biggest cash prizes in the sport at $75,000, and thus draws top chuckwagon drivers from all over North America.
Marketing and Guest Services Manager at Century Downs, Karen Franco, said they feel enthusiastic about supporting the WPCA, and showcasing the sport of chuckwagon racing for youth, in particular.
“We are thrilled to have this opportunity to showcase Century Downs and support the WPCA, and elevate the unique sport of chuckwagon racing in western Canada,” she said. "Century Downs is proud to be the official host of this event. It is another opportunity for us to invite fans of all ages out to our track to celebrate the rich horse racing history and culture across our province and western Canada.”
Franco said the finals is motivating for the drivers as the World Champion driver is determined through points being accumulated throughout the season. She said there was a lot of excitement at the two previous World Finals in 2019 and 2022, and they expect to see that again this year.
According to Franco, the top 12 drivers in the standings after the WPCA show in Rocky Mountain House will qualify for the playoff rounds at the Century Downs World Finals. Over the first four days, the drivers will compete for their normal race points and against one another in a separate point system.
“Of those 12 drivers, the four drivers with the most playoff points will race in the $75,000 Dash for Cash in the last race of the year held on championship Sunday at Century Downs,” Franco said. “[As] the last race of the season, the championship dash definitely creates excitement for fans and people within the sport.”
Franco said that Century Downs is excited to invite fans from Calgary, Airdrie, and all surrounding communities here in southern Alberta to the event.
Century Downs provides a unique experience in relation to other tracks, being the only Southern Alberta "Premiere A" track for thoroughbred, quarter horse and standard bred horse racing, Franco said.
On Wednesday, Century Downs will be having their senior’s night for those 55 and older, with special ticket prices, promotions, and events at the casino and track. Thursday is family day with special pricing for two adults and two children.
Friday is designated for date night and will have a live DJ playing music throughout the event. Ladies night will be taking place Saturday at the track, with a free cabaret style performance from the local performing group The Contrband, which will be located at the outdoor event track.
Inside the casino will have a ladies trivia contest with a chance to win prizes.
Tickets to the event can be purchased at www.showpass.com. Gates to the event will open at 5 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, with races starting at 6 p.m. Gates will open at 1 p.m. on Sunday with races kicking off at 2 p.m.
