Ken ‘Stoney’ Waterston was born a second generation cowboy; he learned his love for the sport from his father. Growing up in the Chase/Kamloops area he started in the BC High School Rodeo Association, where as an athlete he worked all events from both ends of the arena and became a well decorated “True All Around Cowboy.”
After high school he progressed into the Interior Rodeo Association (IRA) and other amateur associations where he won individual event awards as well as continuing with his all-around status. Stoney was a very tough competitor in both rough stock and timed events. As he gained experience and his talents grew, Stoney progressed into the C.P.R.A. and continued his successful run within the professional rodeo ranks in Canada.
With the move to professional status, he kept his focus on calf roping and steer wrestling. His list of achievements includes multiple rodeo wins, he was the 1992 season leader, had over ten qualifications for the prestigious Calgary Stampede where he made it to the top four $50,000 showdown once, and notable appearances at the Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR), including a remarkable season leader position in steer wrestling. Stoney was also recognized locally as Kamloops, B.C. Male Athlete of the Year.
With his love for rodeo, it tied nicely into the ranching and cattle industry, and this is where Stoney has made his professional working career. With his strong knowledge of the cattle industry, he has worked and maintained strong relationships with many of the ranches throughout B.C.
Stoney has also managed herds in the Kamloops area for some of the prominent cattle buyers. He has also been a B.C. brand inspector for over 20 years. On the lighter side he also became well known for his “funny cartoon art,” depicting local characters and common situations.
Stoney and his wife Donna have three daughters and now three grandchildren. The Waterston lineage is now on the fourth generation in the sport of rodeo. He actively engages in coaching and mentoring young cowboys and cowgirls, sharing his wisdom and passion for the cowboy way of life. His dedication extends to organizing clinics, competitions and being an important person in the organization of the Kamloops Pro Rodeo. With his love for rodeo, cattle and the cowboy way of life, Stoney continues to work as a cattle buyer for the Kanart Cattle Company. He also continues to team rope competitively and mentors the younger generations.
The BC Cowboy Hall of Fame inductees will be honoured just prior to Sunday’s rodeo performance at the Indoor Spring Classic Rodeo in Williams Lake April 21.
Don’t miss out on reading the latest local, provincial and national news offered at the Williams Lake Tribune. Sign up for our free newsletter here.