Anything can happen at the Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association (CPCA) finals.
Read more: GALLERY/VIDEO: CPCA finals at Halstead Downs
Sitting sixth overall going into the weekend, Onion Lake Cree Nation’s Colby “The Cobra” Stanley struck his first-ever CPCA championship title on Aug. 24 at Halstead Downs.
“I’m a little bit numb right now,” said an adrenaline-filled Stanley after the win. “I’ve always seen myself here, just not so soon. I’ve always had my goals set and this is where I wanted to be.”
Stanley started his career racing pony chucks and chariots and has only been a CPCA for five seasons. In the four seasons prior to winning a championship, Stanley’s gone from finishing 25th overall to competing in last year’s Dash for Cash.
“This is year-five for me, so things are moving quick, but it’s a lot of blood, sweat and tears through all winter and into the spring,” he said, after breaking away from an endless line of congratulatory hugs.
“To get here this quick is amazing, and to have all my friends and family here is special.”
In true wagon-driver fashion, Stanley credits his team and those close to him for his successes.
“My wife, I’ve got to give her all the credit because she does so much for me, and I’ve got my four boys here with me as well. Having everyone here today means a whole bunch to me,” he said, thanking sponsors, friends, family and fellow racers.
“If I ever needed a hand, those guys were there to help. If I needed a horse one night, they were there, and I try to do the same for them. We’re all one big family back there.”
Despite some rain early in the week, Stanley noted favourable track conditions at the Lloyd Ex.
“Lloyd was great this week. I always love coming here. It doesn’t matter if I’m first or last, It don’t matter to me,” said Stanley.
“It kind of feels like a hometown show to me and we’re just enjoying the ride.”
Read more: VIDEO/GALLERY: CPCA Day 1 results
