For more than 75 years, Saskatchewan Mining and Minerals Inc. (SMMI) has been building a better tomorrow from the ground up. This October, that commitment extended beyond our operations and into the rodeo arena as SMMI proudly returned as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 Canadian Youth Rodeo Championships (CYRC), held October 7–11 in Edmonton, Alberta, alongside the Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR).
SMMI celebrated the determination, resilience, and Prairie spirit of Canada’s next generation of rodeo athletes. These young competitors embody the grit, heart, and dedication that define both Canada’s western heritage and the communities where SMMI has proudly operated for generations.
As a proud Prairie employer and long-time steward of Canada’s natural resources, SMMI understands that strong communities are built by investing in people, preserving traditions, and creating opportunities for future generations.
The Canadian Youth Rodeo Championships bring these values to life, providing young athletes with an opportunity to compete, develop their skills, build lasting friendships, and demonstrate the leadership and sportsmanship that will carry them well beyond the arena.
For SMMI, supporting these athletes is about much more than rodeo. It is about mentorship, community, and recognizing the potential of young people who will become tomorrow’s leaders, both in and out of the arena.
Building on its commitment to youth development, SMMI awarded four scholarships to deserving competitors at the 2026 Canadian Youth Rodeo Championships, doubling the number awarded in 2025.
These scholarships recognize the dedication, character, and potential of young athletes while supporting their continued education and personal development.
Through this investment, SMMI reinforces its belief that success is measured not only by achievements in competition but also by the integrity, perseverance, and leadership demonstrated along the way.
“Building a better tomorrow starts with investing in the next generation. For more than 75 years, Saskatchewan Mining and Minerals has been rooted in Prairie communities, guided by a commitment to responsibility, sustainability, and creating opportunities for the future. These young athletes represent the same determination, resilience, and work ethic that have shaped our company. We’re proud to stand behind them as they pursue their dreams and become tomorrow’s champions.”
— Rodney McCann
President and CEO, Saskatchewan Mining and Minerals Inc.
“The Cinch Canadian Country Expo is proud to once again partner with Saskatchewan Mining and Minerals as the Presenting Sponsor of the Canadian Youth Rodeo Championships. Their continued commitment to supporting young athletes, including the expansion to four scholarships this year, demonstrates a genuine investment in the future of rodeo and the communities that make it possible. With their support we continue to grow the Championships, holding it for the first time in the Kichton Arena, a 4,500 seat mid sized stadium and the perfect venue for this competition. Together we are helping create opportunities for today’s young competitors to become tomorrow’s CFR legends.”
— Nick Goddard
Director, Canadian Country Expo
The connection between SMMI and the Canadian Youth Rodeo Championships is rooted in shared values.
Whether developing Canada’s natural resources responsibly or helping young athletes reach their full potential, lasting success requires dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to the future.
For over seven decades, SMMI has worked to build a sustainable legacy through responsible resource management, strong community partnerships, and a belief in the people who make those communities thrive.
That same philosophy drives its involvement with the Canadian Youth Rodeo Championships.
From minerals to mentorship, SMMI is proud to invest in the people, traditions, and opportunities that will shape tomorrow.
SMMI extends its sincere congratulations to all competitors who participated in the 2026 Canadian Youth Rodeo Championships. Their hard work, courage, and sportsmanship are a testament to the strength of Canada’s western heritage and the promising future of the sport.
The company also recognizes the dedication of the families, coaches, volunteers, and communities who encourage and support these young athletes throughout their rodeo journeys.
SMMI extends its appreciation to Explore Edmonton, Canadian Country Expo, and Canadian Finals Rodeo organizers for their outstanding efforts in delivering an event that celebrates youth achievement, community connection, and the traditions that bring Canadians together.
As SMMI looks to the future, its commitment remains firmly grounded in the values that have guided the company for more than 75 years: responsibility, sustainability, mentorship, and community.
Because, like minerals, champions aren’t born. They’re unearthed.
