The CCA Virtual Rodeo rides into town today for Spectator Day.

Taking a page from the Swift Current Ag and Ex, the Canadian Cowboys Association has adopted a virtual format for this year's event.

Starting today through October 17, they're inviting residents to explore and learn about the different aspects of the CCA Finals rodeo and to revisit some memories from 2019.

Doctor Robert Hope, a member of the CCA Rodeo finals committee says that the event serves two purposes.

First, he wants the event to celebrate the various stakeholders that have always made the CCA Finals a success; the volunteers, the spectators, the competitors and others.

And second, he hopes that by turning to a digital format, it can cement their place on the roster for next year, when they can return bigger and better than ever.

While some events began on Monday and Tuesday, such as the Dress in Denim event and Cowboy Cuisine through various local restaurant sponsors, today is the official first day, dubbed "Spectator Day".

Residents are invited to learn more about the sport of rodeo through the rodeo 101 video and to visit the Southwest Showcase Virtual Tradeshow to support local businesses.

Links and information on the events of the week are available on swiftcurrent.ca/cca.