Chet Churchill, Grand Marshal for the 2024 Elgin Stampede was born in La Grande in 1945, just one year before the inaugural Elgin Stampede. He has been a lifelong resident of the Elgin area and a graduate of Elgin High School. The connection to the organization’s history adds a special significance to his many roles with the Stampeders over the years.
As early as Chet’s high school tenure, he has had many interests including sports, hunting, fishing and golf. The most important of all though has been his long-time involvement in the sport of rodeo. Chet started helping with the Elgin Stampede not long after high school working the out gate for the timed events. From there, he moved on to flagging the bucking chutes for the rough stock events followed by most recently, overseeing the timed events cattle order for the contestants.
Chet is the 1988 past president of the Elgin Stampeders and has been involved in many aspects of the organization over the years from helping with the stagecoach, running chariot races, building fence, and helping with improvements.
While his life is encompassed by his enjoyment of being involved with the Stampeders and taking an interest in all things golf, sports and hunting, another passion Chet encompasses is his love for, and commitment to all the kids in his life. His dedication to begin present for “his kids”, from sporting events, to fishing and their first hunting experiences, is not unfamiliar to those who know Chet.
Chet is excited to welcome you all to the Elgin Stampede, celebrating 77 years of western heritage and tradition!