Jet and Cord McCoy, two cowboys from Oklahoma turned reality television stars, will lead the way as parade marshals for the 2010 Calgary Stampede Parade.
"It's such an honour to ride at the Calgary Stampede, me travelling all the way from Oklahoma, you definitely hear stories of the Calgary Stampede and how great it is," said Cord McCoy.
The so-called "gentlemen cowboys" captivated viewers worldwide this spring as runners-up on the popular television show The Amazing Race. The brothers say travelling the world on the show was a great experience, but the Stampede is even better.
"To come somewhere that has such a history and is so steeped in the traditional western lifestyle, it's definitely nice," added Jet McCoy.
Stampede President and Chairman, Dr. David Chalack, says these young men are reminders of what cowboy ethics are all about.
"These two gentlemen live the values that the Calgary Stampede stands for, doing things the right way, being nice to your neighbours, you know, help people out," commented Chalack.
The Stampede will also honour everyday heroes at this year's parade. Police officers and firefighters will march in the parade to mark the 125th anniversaries of both departments.
"I know I speak for all of our members, sworn and civilian, when I say we are honoured to be recognized with our brothers and sisters from the Fire Department," said Calgary Police Chief Rick Hanson.
"The Calgary Fire Department has a long-standing association with the Calgary Stampede. James "Cappy" Smart, one of the early fire chiefs in the city of Calgary, was on the board for a number of years. We're just proud to be here certainly celebrating our history," said Fire Chief Bruce Burrell.
Also participating as special guests in the Stampede Parade will be local Olympic heroes who inspired the nation during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games.
The parade takes place July 9th.
