HORSE MANAGEMENT

HORSELOGS.COM - Press Release from Equine Canada...
For Immediate Release     June 7, 2006
Contact: Jessie Christie    e-mail: jchristie@equinecanada.ca
Communications Coordinator, Equine Canada
Tel: (613) 248-3433 ext. 133

Equine Enthusiasts Nationwide Enjoy Fourth Annual Horse Week


EC President Al Patterson and Horse Week Committee Char Jack De Wit Ottawa, Ontario -- Equine Canada’s Recreation Division and the Provincial Equestrian Federations are delighted to report that Horse Week 2006 has drawn to a very successful close.

“First and foremost, we must recognize that this initiative has happened through the generous financial support of Wyeth Animal Health and Oster Professional Products as National Sponsors,” remarked Jack De Wit, Chair of the Horse Week 2006 Committee, and EC Board Member. “We thank Wyeth and Oster for their contributions which have enabled more than 12,000 Canadians to participate in over 135 registered Horse Week events across our country.”

A wide range of activities have been enjoyed by Horse Week 2006 enthusiasts. A record number of trail rides were held throughout the provinces; indicating the growing numbers of recreational riders who pursue equine interests in their leisure. From all accounts those who participated had a wonderful time despite the fact that in several cases Mother Nature attempted to thwart their efforts with an influx of spring showers.

Children factored into the mix with a variety of 4-H Club competitions, Canadian Pony Club gymkhanas and horse shows available to those actively involved in the horse community. Hundreds of school children were treated to live demonstrations, classroom presentations and creative arts classes as teachers in a number of Canadian cities incorporated Horse Week 2006 into their lesson plans.

From coast to coast spectators were welcomed at equine competitions of every kind featuring heavy and miniature horses, as well as sport horses of all kinds, including driving, reining, gaming, dressage, hunters and jumper. The ever popular mounts of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Musical Ride held centre stage during Ride & Drive Day performances in the Montreal area.

“As a participant in the Ontario Equestrian Federation’s Ride & Drive Day Trail Ride, I can attest to the fact that Horse Week is an ideal way to mix the great outdoors with physical activity, friendship and horses,” said Al Patterson, President of Equine Canada. “My wife Lynne and I look forward to it each year.”

All are invited to browse the ‘Horse Week 2006 Photo Gallery’ which will soon be published on EC’s website at: http://www.equinecanada.ca/Recreation/ABOUT/horseweek_photogallery.html

As a final reminder, young horse lovers have until June 9 to submit their entries in the ‘Horse Week 2006 Kids Contest’ for a chance to win prizes generously donated by Miss Filly and Blaze Kids. Possibilities include poetry, essays, artwork and a miscellaneous category for those who create something truly original. Complete contest information is available at http://www.equinecanada.ca/Recreation/ABOUT/horseweek_kids.html

The Horse Week 2006 Committee wishes to thank everyone involved with making this year’s celebration a successful one. Be sure to mark your calendars with the dates for Horse Week 2007 which have been set as June 2 – June 11, 2007.

About Equine Canada

Equine Canada is a member-based association that represents, promotes and services Canada's equine community and industry. Its core areas of activity involve sport, equine health and welfare, education and safety, governance and marketing, representation and communication. Equine Canada is recognized by Sport Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), the Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Coaching Association of Canada as the national organization representing equestrian sport and equine interests in Canada. For more information about Equine Canada, please visit www.equinecanada.ca.

Attached Photograph – EC President Al Patterson and Horse Week Committee Char Jack De Wit Kick off OEF Trail Ride on Horse Week Ride & Drive Day

Photo Credit: Courtesy of the Ontario Equestrian Federation

Photograph may be used one time only, in relation to the above news item. Photograph also available in higher resolution, please e-mail: jchristie@equinecanada.ca