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canarybird
08-07-2011, 13:05
With the royal couple in my homeland - (although I'm from further west, from Vancouver Island) - my younger daughter lives in Calgary and will have seen Kate and William in their appearances at the Calgary Stampede. (http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/William-And-Kate-Watch-Rodeo-In-Calgary-Canada-As-Royal-Tour-Comes-To-An-End/Article/201107216026559?lpos=World_News_First_World_News_A rticle_Teaser_Region_4&lid=ARTICLE_16026559_William_And_Kate_Watch_Rodeo_ In_Calgary%2C_Canada%2C_As_Royal_Tour_Comes_To_An_ End)

I see they were watching the Mutton Busting contest in which small children (wearing crash helmets) ride the back of a sheep for a few seconds, in imitation of the bronco busting undertaken by experienced cowboys.

Photo borrowed from Sky News:

http://canarybird.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous-1/i-4QkMKcf/0/M/400x375-M.jpg


And by coincidence, it was exactly nine years ago today that my younger granddaughter won a $100 prize for being able to stay longest on the sheep's back in this same Mutton Busting contest at the Calgary Stampede.

The money was actually a credit towards her education.

http://canarybird.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous-1/i-qg3xBgB/0/M/P7080827Jess-B-M.jpg

http://canarybird.smugmug.com/Other/Tenerife-North-Weather-2/i-Dbw5kp9/0/M/P7080829Jess-8-july-2002-M.jpg

Here she is holding her cheque and trophy.

Apart from that, I admire the way that Kate can look just fabulous in any kind of a hat, be it one from Philip Treacy or the Canadian white Stetson worn in Calgary!

Canarybird

universal
08-07-2011, 15:34
This young couple are doing much to repair the image of the Royals abroad (although Canada in general has always been pro-monarchical).
I remember being at the 1977 Stampede Parade, which was headed by William's father, he was flanked, on horseback, by the chiefs of the five nations (Peigan, Sarcee, Blood, Stoney & Blackfoot) all in full ceremonial dress, a magnificent sight.
The Native Canadians have always considered that they have stronger ties with the Royal Family than with their own government. The Cambrigdes are a credit to the nation.

Margaretta
08-07-2011, 18:52
They have made a great impression and it makes such a difference when the Royals smile. Cate and William both have that wonderful smile which makes people comfortable. The happy, obvious, genuine 'unaffected affection' and fun between the couple is exactly what is required after all the years of colder formality. As long as they don't go too far and they retain their humour and easy dignity they will make good role models. We're impressed that our daughter(early twenties) and her many friends already love the couple and are really approving. You won't find more discerning critics than the Cambridges' own generation!!!