Vigen, Laboucane, and Glass Set for Rangeland Derby Championship

The stage is set for the championship heat of the Rangeland Derby, with drivers Chanse Vigen, Jamie Laboucane, and Jason Glass advancing to the finals. Their positions were secured through impressive performances over nine nights of racing at the Calgary Stampede, where the top three drivers in the aggregate standings earned a spot in the $80,000 Championship Final Heat scheduled for July 9, 2023.

Vigen and Laboucane held the top two positions throughout the week, effectively locking in their places before the final night of racing. Glass, who came into the event in third place, needed a strong performance to assure his advancement. He achieved this by posting the second fastest time of the night at 1:11.90. Reflecting on his competitors, Glass praised both Vigen and Laboucane, stating, “They’ve got some beautiful horses in the barn and they’re both driving fantastic. All the credit in the world to both of those guys.”

Chanse Vigen’s Determination

For Vigen, the journey to the championship is personal. After finishing third in last year’s final heat, he has been focused on returning to the top. “It’s the only reason why I’m racing a wagon right now is to try to win this show,” Vigen expressed earlier this year. His dedication to the sport is evident, as this marks his fourth appearance in the championship heat, having previously competed in 2017 and 2018.

Known as “The Rangeland Derby Rockstar,” Vigen has continually sought knowledge to improve his skills. He emphasized the importance of learning in the sport, stating, “You’ll learn until the day you retire.” With guidance from legends like Kelly Sutherland, a record-holding twelve-time Rangeland Derby champion, Vigen understands the complexities of wagon racing.

The sport, while appearing straightforward to spectators, involves numerous factors that require ongoing learning and adaptation. Vigen noted, “It’s a very complicated game that we’re playing. You’ll never get it figured out. There’s no formula.”

Championship Anticipation

As the championship day approaches, excitement builds among fans and competitors alike. Vigen, Laboucane, and Glass have demonstrated their skills and determination throughout the competition, making them strong contenders for the title.

The Rangeland Derby is not only a showcase of speed and skill but also a testament to the dedication of the drivers and their teams. As the final heat approaches, all eyes will be on these top three competitors, each hoping to claim victory at this prestigious event.