Get out your riding crop! Fans of English riding can indulge their passion in Pemberton this Sunday. Equine Canada coach Shirley Hills and Canadian Equestrian Federation instructor Sula Coulson have organized The Pemberton Hunter/Jumper show for July 17 at the Pemberton Community Riding Ring located on Cottonwood Road.
The event is a gesture towards the Squamish Valley Equestrian Association, an organization which hosts five shows annually that Pemberton area riders support. Last year, Hills and Coulson were approached by the SVEA to consider organizing two shows in Pemberton, which they in turn would attend. The women jumped at the opportunity.
"I think this type of event promotes excellence in riding and gives local people who ride English to get their horses out to a smaller competition and that gives them confidence so they feel prepared to go to bigger shows," said Hills.
While riders of all ages and abilities will be participating in the event, Hills sees this smaller type of show as a great boon to younger equestrians.
"We have some great horse and riders up here but not a lot of opportunity for green horses and young riders to get experience," said Hills.
Competitors from Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton will compete in a variety of flat classes in the morning and "over fences" classes in the afternoon. Judges for the both shows will be certified with the Horse Council B.C. and Equine Canada.
Spectators are encouraged to come out and enjoy this inaugural event.
The all day event concludes at 6 p.m.
