Calgary, AB – The Calgary Stampede Parade, widely known as the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” kicked off with a burst of energy and colors. As an insider in this year’s parade and proud member of the K8 Mountaineering Club of Alberta, I had the incredible opportunity to serve as a safety marshal for the Philippine Contingent led by the Fiesta Filipino Organization, experiencing firsthand the joy and pride of this remarkable celebration of Western heritage from a unique perspective.
It was a fun and memorable experience for the 10 members of K8, most of whom were participating in the parade as safety marshals for the first time. As early as five in the morning, we gathered and prepared our gear with meticulous attention to detail. Our bags were packed with essential supplies, such as several first aid kits, water bottles, candies, and ice, ensuring that we were well-equipped to address any potential medical needs. Drawing from the lessons learned in the previous parades, we were determined to be fully prepared.
Prior to the start of the parade, the members of K8 performed a comprehensive briefing on the safety protocols and the chain of commands in the event of an incident. Clear communication and a thorough understanding of our roles and responsibilities were paramount to ensuring the safety of all participants and their volunteers.
Upon arrival at the parade holding ground, the air resonated with the festive beats of drums and resounding cheers of “Mabuhay” and “Hep Hep Hooray.” The vibrant traditional clothes, captivating folk dances, and the proud display of the Philippine flag filled the atmosphere with infectious energy. As a Filipino immigrant, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride as we marched behind the Filipino flag, symbolizing our unity and heritage.
During the parade, an unexpected challenge arose when one of the drummers’ platform wheels gave way. However, the strength of the K8 Mountaineering Club was evident as we rallied together, ensuring that the parade continued without any interruption. Drawing on our collective strengths and resourcefulness, we swiftly came to the aid of our fellow participants, demonstrating the camaraderie and solidarity that define our club.
The parade provided us with valuable lessons and insights. It served as a reminder of the importance of adaptability and teamwork in the face of unexpected situations. We quickly identified potential hazards and issues along the route, proactively working with the Fiesta Filipino volunteers to address them. Our commitment to safety and preparedness was unwavering as we strived to provide a seamless and secure parade experience for everyone.
As the parade concluded, a sense of fulfillment and gratitude filled our hearts. The experience of participating in the Calgary Stampede Parade as safety marshals for the Fiesta Filipino organization and the Philippine Contingent was truly rewarding. The opportunity to contribute to such a cherished community event, while showcasing our Filipino heritage, was a testament to the values of the K8 Mountaineering Club of Alberta.
The K8 Mountaineering Club of Alberta remains thankful for the privilege of participating in the Calgary Stampede Parade and supporting Fiesta Filipino. As an organization deeply rooted in community service, we are grateful for every opportunity to give back and make a positive impact. The parade served as a reminder of our shared values, the strength of our bonds, and the power of collective efforts.
