Bragging rights in the Fort Macleod business community will be on the line again this summer in the third annual Battle of the Businesses.
Fort Macleod Chamber of Commerce is accepting registration for the event, which this year is Wednesday, June 24 in Midnight Stadium Agriplex during the pro rodeo.
“It’s getting bigger and better every year,” Chamber president Mike Bourassa said.
A maximum of 10 co-ed teams will compete in events such as the obstacle course, beach volleyball, marble run, survival challenge, ultimate relay and a special rodeo-themed final event between the top two teams.
Chamber executive director Rachel Knudsen said the events this year will be based more on skill than strength to even the playing field for women and men.
“We are definitely picking more events this year that are more skill-based and less strength-based,” Bourassa said.
Teams this year can have a maximum of five men.
In addition to moving the Battle indoors and tailoring the events to skill, another change in 2026 is the event will run from 4-6 p.m., rather than 3-5 p.m. as in past.
That later start time is intended to give more businesses the opportunity to participate outside of regular business hours.
The time slot also allows fans to watch the Battle and then head straight to the pro rodeo in the outdoor Midnight Stadium arena.
The Chamber of Commerce is again partnering with the Fort Macleod Agricultural Society, with 10 tickets to the pro rodeo going to the team that wins the Battle.
Other community partners are Westco Construction, Scougall Motors, MA Catering Co., Grassroots Real Estate, Structural Truss-Forma Steel and Avail Chartered Professional Accountants.
“That’s one of our main mandates, to work with other groups and organizations in the town,” Bourassa said. “It’s a good opportunity work with the Ag Society, and they’ve been great to work with because it’s a win for both of us, really.”
Teams are encouraged to register through the Chamber’s Web site by the end of May in order to ensure they have a spot in the Battle.
“It’s a great team-building activity,” Bourassa said of the benefit to businesses. “It’s a way to get out with your co-workers outside of work, and have some fun.”
There is an early bird registration fee of $550 per team in place until May 20.
Register at www.fortmacleodchamber.ca.
Sponsorship opportunities are available at the presenting ($2,500), gold ($1,000), and silver ($500) levels.
