Calgary’s business community came together Thursday night and set a new record, committing just over $6 million at the annual Calgary Stampede Canvas Auction. 

Chuckwagon driver Rae Croteau Jr. netted the highest bid of the night — $550,000 dollars from Bar L5 Ranch, which is also a new record for a single canvas.

“It’s a shocker, but it really shows the strength in Alberta, in the sport and in what the Calgary Stampede does,” said Croteau Jr. in a release.

“This kind of support sets you up for the year. It’s not just the races, it’s the off-season too — buying horses, building depth, sourcing feed — it even helps get the kids to hockey in the winter.”

The canvas auction is an annual event that brings together partner companies and community groups with the 27 chuckwagon drivers invited to compete at the Stampede’s iconic Rangeland Derby.

Successful bidders get to showcase their brand on a driver’s chuckwagon canvas throughout Stampede.

The auction night gives guests a one-of-a-kind, behind-the-scenes experience in the chuckwagon barns, the Stampede said.

“What stood out tonight was not just the level of investment, but the pride and passion behind it,” said Stuart O’Connor, Calgary Stampede president and board chair.

“The Canvas Auction reflects the deep connection between our business community and chuckwagon racing — supporting our drivers, their teams and the future of the sport.”

The auction marks the kickoff and countdown to The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, which gets underway on July 3.