The Rimbey Ag Society Johansen Brothers steer riding and bull riding schools happen three to four times each year. One took place recently on March 4 and 5. Scott Schiffner, a retired and well-known Canadian champion in bull riding and Jesse Torkelson, fellow Canadian champion bull rider, are the instructors and have been honouring the Johansen Brother’s legacy.
“The five Johansen Brothers were bull riders, four of the five winning Canadian Championships,” said Schiffner.
The Johansen Brothers started putting on Bull Riding and Steer Riding Schools over 40 years ago.
Schiffner and Torkelson both had the opportunity to attend both schools and have been putting them on in Rimbey for three years now.
“They always installed the safety factors, the importance of proper get offs and worked hard to supply the proper stock for their students,” said Schiffner.
One of the main factors in this sport is confidence.
Looking back, the Johansen’s have been one of the biggest influence in Canada for hundreds of cowboys over the years.
“It’s a honour and privilege to keep their legacy alive, and hopefully Jesse and I can keep shaping the youth and building cowboys for years to come.”
More schools will be taking place at the end of this month along with another in the fall.
-With files from Jill Moore
