Cluck Cluck Chicken Run held during Pro Rodeo

Josh Davis, Pincher Creek Voice

Alyssa Barbero helps clear the track before another chicken
 run prior to handing out the post-race awards
C. Davis photo

Saturday, August 18 marked the debut of the Cluck Cluck Chicken Run, held at the Pincher Creek Ag Grounds during the lull before the day's Pro Rodeo events.

Chickens were attached loosely to a harnesses and chariot weighing no more than one pound. They were then sent down a ramp into individual lanes, in which they were supposed to race. As can be expected of chickens, many did not complete the track, and quite a few unattached themselves, partially or completely, from their chariot harness.

At the finish line
C. Davis photo

Tape and tying on of chariot harnesses was disallowed, to prevent the chickens from choking. Though originally planned as a two-day event, the number of registered chickens necessitated cutting it back to a single-day event. The turnout was satisfactory, as the event drew a large crowd, including many small children. Children whose families were chicken owners were used to collect the stray chickens that refused to finish to race and leave the track.

However, when the chickens actually got running they could complete the race in very quick time. The first place chicken was Crestview Clucky, who made the final run at 15.4 seconds. Second place was granted to Lady Gaga. In third place was the Crazy Clucker. The winners were granted medals and earned a cash prize.