Behind the Scenes at the CFD Rodeo

By Helen Coronato
The Accidental Cowgirl

From July 22–31st, Cheyenne Wyoming was transformed from a contemporary town of 60,000 residents to the world famous Daddy of ‘Em All Cheyenne Frontier Days. Always held the last full week of July, Frontier Days is hosted almost entirely by local residents who help facilitate nine days of rodeos sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), professional entertainment, parades, art shows, concerts, shopping and food.

With so much to see and do, the event can seem overwhelming. But when you have a chance to interview a key player, the chance to go behind the velvet rope (or in this case, the iron chute) makes the experience that much more exhilarating. Kirsten Vold, Cheyenne Fronteir’s Days stock contractor, was kind enough to take time from her jammed-packed schedule and answer a few questions about this 115-year-old rodeo.

As a female Pioneer in the rodeo industry which professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

That paint horse stud Painted Valley in the back pens, he was voted 2010's Saddle Bronc of the Year.

What is the biggest change you've seen in rodeo since becoming a full time member of Vold Rodeo Company?

For more than 38 years I’ve been involved in rodeo and cowboy sponsorship has grown immensely. Of course it is not anywhere near comparable to the NFL or the basketball or baseball players, but some of these cowboys wouldn't be able to do what they love if it weren't for their sponsors. Also, the contestants have a lot more to say about the stock and what goes on at a rodeo now than they did even 10 years ago.

What's your favorite thing about working Cheyenne Frontier Days (CFD)?

When we come to CFD, I get to work with people that I don't usually get to see all year.  It’s like reuniting with a close-knit family who all enjoy working together for 10 days.

Your father Harry Vold (owner of one of the largest stock contracting companies in North America) is known as the “Duke of the Chutes”, what's your title?

Well I have heard princess, but I really don't like that name, and I've also heard Duchess of the Chutes.

With a calm, collective demeanor, personable smile and humble self assuredness, Kristen Vold is rightfully taking her place as the Duchess of the Chutes and is likely to continue helping to shape the future of rodeo. For all of us who love Cheyenne Frontier Day’s Rodeo, I can’t think of better news. 

Helen is a professional writer living in Hulett, Wyoming. When not trying to remember to ask for a sack instead of a "bag" when buying pop (not "soda!"), she and her family are out exploring the Black Hills and busy making the West, home. For more information, visit www.HelenCoronato.com.