William Shatner to lead Calgary Stampede parade

William Shatnerwill lead the Calgary Stampede's parade next month.

TheCanadian actor, best known for his long-running portrayal of Capt. James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise, is an avid horseman, according to a Calgary Stampede statement released Tuesday.

Calgary-based speedskaters Gilmore Junio and Denny Morrison will be honorary marshals "in recognition of their unique story of Olympic camaraderie earlier this year at Sochi."

Junio made worldwide headlines when he stepped aside from themen's 1,000 metres at the 2014 Olympics in Sochi, Russia, so Canadian teammateMorrison could compete. Morrison went on to win a silver medal.

The Calgary Stampede parade is scheduled for July 4 at 9 a.m., kicking off the annual exhibition and rodeo, which runs until July 13.

Below is theYouTube video released today ofthe parade marshal announcement. On mobile? Click here.