Ottawa, Ontario — Equine Canada’s Recreation Division, the Provincial Equestrian Federations and Official Spokesperson, 2006 World Equestrian Games Silver Medalist Team member Lance Griffin are pleased to announce that Horse Week 2007 was a huge success nationwide.

“We would like to express our gratitude to the 2007 Horse Week Sponsors,” remarked Jack De Wit, Chair of the Horse Week 2007 Committee, and EC Board Member. “Horse Week 2007 would not have been possible without Platinum Sponsors SSG Riding Gloves, and the Equine Canada Breeds & Industry Division, as well as Gold Sponsors, Oster Professional Products and West Nile Innovator. Their generous contributions set the stage for more than 18,000 Canadians to participate in over 145 registered Horse Week events across Canada.”

A wide range of activities have been enjoyed by Horse Week 2007 enthusiasts. Spectators at the Spruce Meadows ‘National’ Tournament in Calgary, AB were treated to a National Horse Week networking breakfast hosted by the Breeds & Industry Division, where they had the opportunity to meet Horse Week spokesperson Lance Griffin.

“Being the Spokesperson for Horse Week 2007 has been an interesting experience to have. I noticed that often the boundaries between the equine disciplines do not get crossed very often, but having met so many of the other people from all the other disciplines, what becomes so noticeable is that there is in fact such little difference between us, and that has been great to learn,” commented Griffin. “The networking breakfast at Spruce Meadows was very well done, and the growth of Horse Week in general is very promising. I have enjoyed the job very much.”

A large number of trail rides took place across the country, whether riding along beaches, or up mountainsides, participants enjoyed spring from the back of a horse. Competitions of every discipline from dressage and hunter/jumper to eventing and gymkhanas were available to those actively involved in the horse community, and were enjoyed equally by spectators. The ever popular mounts of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Musical Ride held centre stage during a performance in Yorkton, SK.

“As President of this organization and a Canadian breeder, it is very encouraging to see the steady growth in the sport and industry and the overall interest in the horse,” said Al Patterson, President of Equine Canada. “The annual increase of participation in Ride and Drive events surrounding Horse Week only exemplifies how important our friend the horse is to us all.”

All are invited to browse the ‘Horse Week 2007 Photo Gallery’ which will soon be published on the Horse Week section of EC’s website www.equinecanada.ca.

As a final reminder, young horse lovers have until June 18 to submit their entries in the ‘Horse Week 2007 Kids Contest’ for a chance to win prizes generously donated by Miss Filly, Kemptville Feed & Seed and Greenhawk Harness & Equestrian Supplies. Possibilities include poetry, essays, artwork and a miscellaneous category for those who create something truly original. Complete contest information is available online.

The Horse Week 2007 Committee wishes to thank everyone involved with making this year’s celebration a successful one.

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