BC’S EQUINE LIFESTYLE
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BC’S Equine Lifestyle
WINTER 2025
Published quarterly by
Horse Council BC
27336 Fraser Hwy, Aldergrove BC, V4W 3N5
T: 604-856-4304
F: 604-856-4302
Toll Free: 1-800-345-8055
www.hcbc.ca
On the cover: Valley Riders Sparwood Society
Horse Council BC is a membershipdriven not-for-profit association representing the interests of the equine industry in all sectors throughout British Columbia.
Horse Council BC represents the equine industry in agriculture, industry, sport, and recreation through education, grant funding, club support, government advocating, liability insurance, and participant programs.
Horse Council BC gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
HCBC Board Chair’s
Message
By Lynda Atkinson| HCBC Board Chair
As we step into 2025, I am filled with enthusiasm for the future of Horse Council BC and the vibrant equine community we serve. This year promises to be one of growth, collaboration, and opportunity, and I am honored to lead our organization through these exciting times.
First and foremost, I want to draw your attention to our upcoming Board of Director elections. In accordance with our by-laws, each year we seek candidates to fill four skill-based Director positions, that serve as representatives for all members within our community. Each Director is elected for a three-year term. These roles are critical to shaping the strategic direction of Horse Council BC and ensuring that we continue to represent the diverse interests of our members across British Columbia.
As Directors, these individuals will work alongside the existing Board to advocate for equine welfare, support equestrian sports and recreation, and strengthen our partnerships with industry and government.
If you are interested in serving as a director, the nominations process will open in March. You can find out more information at Elections – Horse Council BC.(www.hcbc.ca > Board of Directors > Elections)
Beyond the elections, I am thrilled to share that Horse Council BC is forging new partnerships and launching innovative programs to benefit our members. On January 10, 2025, we announced an exciting collaboration with Equine Register Canada, a partnership that will enhance our ability to support equine identification and traceability initiatives. This collaboration reflects our commitment to equine welfare and industry standards, ensuring that our members have access to cutting-edge resources.
Additionally, we are working on new programs to support education, infrastructure, and community engagement. Our partnership with Equine Guelph continues to provide members with a 15% discount on short courses, offering valuable continuing education opportunities for athletes, coaches, and horse caregivers. We are also exploring funding opportunities through our BC Equestrian Trails Fund and Infrastructure and Equipment Grants, which aim to support trail development and enhance facilities across the province.
These initiatives are just the beginning. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to listening to our members and adapting to the evolving needs of the equine community. Whether you’re a recreational rider, a competitive athlete, or a club leader, Horse Council BC is here to support you.
Thank you for your continued trust and engagement. Together, we will ensure that Horse Council BC remains a leader in advocating for the equine industry and fostering a thriving equestrian community in British Columbia. I look forward to sharing more updates on our partnerships and programs in the months ahead.
Ride and drive on,
Lynda Atkinson Chair, Horse Council BC
Membership
Conditions, Code of Conduct & More
Horse Council BC (HCBC) is a vibrant community committed to supporting and promoting the equestrian industry and lifestyle throughout British Columbia. As you join the HCBC community, there are a few key points we’d like to emphasize some of the terms and conditions to ensure a greater understanding for our members.
1. Conditions of Membership
• Eligibility: HCBC memberships are available to all individuals. However, members under the age of 19 must obtain parental consent to join.
• Non-Refundable: Please note that all HCBC memberships are non-refundable.
• Membership Upgrades: Memberships cannot be pro-rated or upgraded from an individual membership to a family membership once purchased.
• Expiration: HCBC memberships are valid until December 31st each year and must be renewed annually.
• Email Consent: To access your online account or reset your password, consent via email is required. If you prefer not to have online account access, you may opt out of this consent.
2. Privacy Statement
HCBC is committed to safeguarding the personal information of its members and ensures that members’ details are never sold or shared outside of the organization.
Any personal data members provide, such as name, address, phone number, or email, may be used to keep you informed about membership updates, events, activities, and promotions—only if you have agreed to receive such communications.
For further details on how your data is managed, please refer to the HCBC Privacy Policy, which can be found under About > Governance > Strategic Planning & Policies > Policies and Procedures Manual.
3. Code of Conduct
HCBC upholds both a Member Code of Conduct and a Universal Code of Conduct to foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants.
These guidelines outline the expectations for behavior and interactions among members, whether at events, online, or during any HCBC-related activity. Adhering to these codes ensures a positive experience for everyone involved.
To learn more about these codes, please visit the HCBC website and navigate to About > Safe Sport.
4. Membership Survey
As part of the membership process, HCBC is required by the Province of British Columbia to collect certain information to help better understand and support our members. The following details will be gathered:
1. Primary/Secondary Involvement: Members’ primary and secondary roles within the equestrian industry.
2. Competition Level: Whether members compete, and if so, at what level.
3. Identification: Whether members identify as Indigenous or as an athlete with a disability.
4. Horse Ownership: The number of horses owned by the member.
This information helps us provide the province with accurate data on how members engage with the equestrian industry, which in turn supports our efforts to secure funding for recreation, sport, and industry initiatives, ultimately enhancing the support we provide to our members.
Acera Insurance Services
Optional Insurance Offers Value to Your Membership
As the reader will know, Acera Insurance Services Ltd. is a longtime partner of HCBC, providing a range of risk management and insurance services to members.
We wanted to remind you that in addition to the $5,000,000 personal liability insurance and $40,000 accident insurance included in your annual membership dues, membership in HCBC provides exclusive access to several OPTIONAL INSURANCE BENEFITS
OPTIONAL Accidental Death and Dismemberment
Enhanced Accidental Death & Dismemberment coverage provides an additional $75,000 Principal Sum AD&D to your included coverage, fracture benefits of $7,500/$2,500 principal sum (helmet/no helmet) and Dental benefits of$5,000 principal sum. Under 75 Years of Age Only. Not available to US Residents.
OPTIONAL Members Named Perils Horse Insurance
Covers the death of an owned horse resulting from fire, lightning, and collision/overturn of a conveyance in which a horse was being transported. Coverage also extends to windstorm/hail, earthquake or flood, attack by a dog or wild animal, collapse of building, result of government authority and more. This policy insures up to a maximum of $10,000 which can be applied regardless of the number of horses owned. Losses are restricted to one claim per year. Not available to US Residents.
OPTIONAL Emergency Life Saving Surgery
This policy covers Emergency lifesaving surgery necessitated by accident or sickness (including colic surgery) to a maximum of $2500 for expenses incurred ($250 deductible) Eligibility is restricted to members who also purchase the Members Named Perils policy.
OPTIONAL Members Tack Insurance
Insures tack and equipment from loss or damage anywhere in North America. Limit $15,000 ($500 deductible). Does not cover clothing or protective equipment worn by riders, wear & tear/ abuse, mysterious disappearance, or horse drawn vehicles. Not available to US Residents.
This exclusive insurance policy provides income replacement in the event you are unable to work due to an accident. Coverage is in force 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week and includes (but is not limited to), injuries arising from an equine related incident.
The policy will provide up to $500.00/ week in income replacement for up to 26 weeks. (Some restrictions apply)
To qualify for this special program and be eligible for benefits, you must meet the following minimum requirements:
1. Be a resident of Canada.
2. Be a member in good standing of your provincial equine association;
3. Be employed full time (minimum of 25 hours a week with a single employer); and
4. Be under the age of 70 years old; and
5. Filed an income tax return to Canada Revenue Agency in the most recent year.
The combined benefit from this policy and all other benefits available to you (WCB/WSIB/CPP/ Employer Group Programs, etc.) cannot exceed 75% of reported gross income to Canadian Revenue Agency in the most recent taxation year.
More information is available on the HCBC website or by calling us toll free at 1-800-670-1877.
OPTIONAL Weekly Accident Indemnity Insurance Member Only
Funding for Members
Horse Council BC Grants are open and accepting applications, read below for a summary of those available at this time. For more information and to apply visit: https://hcbc.ca/ membership/funding-for-hcbc-members/
Infrastructure and Equipment Grants
The HCBC (Horse Council BC) Infrastructure and Equipment Grants support clubs, branches, and affiliates in purchasing equipment or completing projects that improve facilities and promote growth in the equestrian community. The grant aims to help clubs initiate projects, but they should seek additional funding to complete them. Eligible projects include equipment purchases (e.g., jump equipment) and facility upgrades (e.g., arena improvements). The grant covers up to 75% of the project cost, with a maximum of $5,000, and clubs must contribute at least 25% of the cost.
Eligible applicants are HCBC members in good standing for at least two years, with priority given to those who haven’t received funding in the previous year. Each organization can apply once per year, and ineligible projects include trail development and educational events.
Application Deadline April 30th
Education Grant
The Education Grant supports Affiliates, Clubs, and Branches in offering equine educational opportunities to their local communities. The grant can be used for classroom, demonstration, or mounted education, and is open to everyone in the community, not just HCBC members. The grant covers up to 50% of the expenses, with a maximum of $500.
To apply, the organization must be a current HCBC Affiliate, Club, or Branch member for at least one year. Only one application per year per organization is allowed for this funding.
BC Equestrian Trails Fund
The BC Equestrian Trails Fund (BCETF) supports HCBC member clubs and affiliates in constructing or maintaining equestrian trails, trailheads, or horse camping sites in British Columbia for public use. In 2024, the fund totaled over $25,000 and is annually increased by donations. The fund serves as “seed funding” to help secure additional grants.
Applications must be submitted by April 30th, with a possible second intake by June 30th if funds remain. Eligible applicants are HCBC member clubs or affiliates in good standing for at least two years, or HCBC committees with qualifying projects.
Eligible projects include new trail construction, upgrades, bridge construction, signage, trail rehabilitation, and horse camp facilities. The grant covers up to 75% of project costs, with a maximum of $5,000, and all funds must be used by December 31st, 2025.
Trailhead Advocacy Grant
*New for 2025!* The Trailhead Advocacy Grant from Horse Council BC supports events aimed at promoting multi-user trail safety through education. The grant provides $200 to cover event expenses for organizations engaging with trail users to teach safe trail interactions.
Eligible applicants include HCBC Affiliates, Clubs, or Branches/ Chapters, and each organization can apply once per year. To apply, complete the application form, obtain written permission from the land manager (e.g., BC Parks or Municipalities), and submit the application at least 30 days before the event. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.
New! Development Grants for Coach Candidates with a Disability
Horse Council BC (HCBC), in partnership with viaSport, is offering $500 grants to coach candidates with disabilities to help them overcome challenges in the certification process. This funding can be used for training, resources, mentoring, evaluations (in-person or video), or Cohort participation fees related to EC/NCCP coach or instructor certifications. Grants are available until the funding runs out. For more information, candidates can contact coaching@hcbc.ca.
To learn more about HCBC Grants and Apply visit: https://hcbc. ca/membership/funding-for-hcbc-members/
Arena Upgrades at Sointula Horse Club 2024
Coaching Year in Review 2024
• 186 Coaches and Instructors hold Licensed Status with EC
• 38 hold Registered status with EC
IN 2024 18 NEW COACHES AND INSTRUCTORS WERE CERTIFIED IN BC!
I would like to say a huge “Thanks Coach” to the BC Coaches and Instructors for a outstanding year of Coaching and Coach education. Here are some of the numbers and highlights from last year.
In 2024:
• 18 Coaches and Instructors certified in BC and we are on track to complete 23 certifications by early 2025.
• 9 Coaches and Instructors were certified through the Cohort Training program.
• 3 Western Instructors were certified
• There are 300 active, certified and current coaches in BC, (number varies day to day)
• Region 1 (BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba) hosted 2 Coaching Cohorts
• Numerous coaches contributed to the BC Summer Games acting as Coaches, Assistant Coaches Adult supervisors and Mentors.
• The weekly Coaching Connection Social Media campaign was published on Facebook, regularly, providing information for members, coaches and coach candidates.
• The External Sport Credit program was reevaluated by the Ministry and approved to continue.
• Our Coaches administered 310 Learn to Ride tests, o 271 English o 39 Western
• 34 English Coaches participated in the training to conduct Learn to Ride testing
• 40 Coaches participated in the Trauma Informed Coaching webinar series
This is not a complete list, but some of the highlights from 2024. We are looking at an outstanding 2025 moving forward.
Feature
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) is a charitable organization that serves as an umbrella group for over 100 outdoor recreation associations and organizations across the province. Representing a broad spectrum of outdoor activities— including horseback riding, hiking, snowmobiling, mountain biking, paddling, birdwatching, and four-wheeling—ORCBC works in the public interest to enhance and protect outdoor recreation opportunities in British Columbia.
Since its founding in 1976, ORCBC has collaborated with government agencies, First Nations, non-profits, and the public to address issues related to recreation access, environmental stewardship, and public policy. The organization is committed to protecting and expanding access to parks, trails, and waterways while advocating for policies that support responsible recreation. ORCBC pushes for increased funding for outdoor infrastructure and programs while engaging in outreach and education to foster inclusivity, collaboration, and stewardship.
The Outdoor Recreation Fund of BC
One of ORCBC’s recent initiatives is the Outdoor Recreation Fund of BC, a grant program that provides funding for community-based projects that enhance outdoor experiences for British Columbians.
In May 2023, the Province of B.C. contributed $10 million to ORCBC to establish the first-ever endowment fund and granting program dedicated to strengthening outdoor recreation. Since its launch in 2024, ORCBC has awarded 30 grants, distributing $250,000 across 55 communities and supporting 30 different outdoor activities.
The grant program prioritizes three key areas: Outdoor Enhancement, Stewardship & Education, and Inclusive Participation.
BC Trails Day & BC Rivers Day
Each year, ORCBC coordinates and promotes BC Trails Day (the first Saturday in June) and BC Rivers Day (the fourth Sunday in September). These events encourage outdoor enthusiasts to participate in stewardship and educational activities that protect and celebrate B.C.’s natural spaces.
BC Rivers Day, founded in 1980 by ORCBC and river conservationist Mark Angelo, began as a small cleanup on the Thompson River to highlight the importance of protecting waterways. Over time, it inspired World Rivers Day, now
celebrated in over 100 countries. Rivers and freshwater ecosystems face increasing threats from urbanization, industrial pollution, excessive water extraction, invasive species, and climate change. On BC Rivers Day, ORCBC encourages recreation clubs, conservation organizations, schools, and local governments to take part by hosting cleanups, paddling events, and community ceremonies.
Similarly, BC Trails Day, launched by ORCBC in 2021, focuses on celebrating and maintaining B.C.’s extensive trail network. The event promotes responsible recreation, environmental stewardship, and recognition of volunteers who help maintain trails. ORCBC provides event-hosting toolkits and promotional resources to help organizations engage their communities and expand outreach efforts.
A Growing Legacy
Over the years, ORCBC has significantly expanded its reach, spearheading initiatives that promote recreation, conservation, and responsible outdoor enjoyment. Through ongoing advocacy, funding opportunities, and community-driven events, the organization continues to strengthen opportunities for outdoor recreation in BC—ensuring that nature remains accessible, protected, and enjoyed by all. ORCBC encourages outdoor enthusiasts to get involved and learn more by visiting their sites below.
Website: www.orcbc.ca
Newsletter: www.orcbc.ca#subscribe
Facebook: www.facebook.com/orcbc.ca
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/orcbc
Instagram: www.instagram.com/orcbc.ca
Club Feature Kelowna Riding Club
For this issue, we wish to shine a spotlight on a fantastic Horse Council BC club, Kelowna Riding Club. This wonderful club hosts an impressive facility that was initially brought together through community effort, spearheaded by Tom Carter and Paddy Cameron. It all began with the purchase of the property and by 1965, arenas and a fifty-stall barn were built, the barn still being used today by the club. The clubhouse itself was formed in the early 1970s, joining together the East Kelowna Schoolhouse and the construction headquarters used for the construction of Okanagan Lake Bridge. The patio adorning the building was designed by renowned architect, John Woodward.
It seems that we aren’t the only ones who find the club impressive as Kelowna Riding Club’s riding facility and several of their club members (and horses) were featured in the 2012 movie, Flicka: Country Pride. As a community focused club, they always strive to make people feel welcome. KRC have regularly held family events that include pony rides, pancake breakfasts, and information stands on the different disciplines within the sport of horseback riding. This is a fantastic type of event to attend if you’re just starting out as an equestrian as it gives you the opportunity to introduce yourself, and ask questions, to experienced and qualified equestrians. If a sense of community is something that you’re seeking, look no further than KRC. In Fall 2022, the club was struggling financially after suffering the after-effects of COVID. For the last show of the season, they asked for support from the community, sponsors, and members to help raise funds for the club. Tracy Avery, a long-time club member and board director, noted that it was inspiring to see how many people stepped up to help, “It was very validating because it proved that we’re still relevant and that we still mattered. That was a springboard for us to bounce back.”
So, you might be asking, what does Kelowna Riding Club offer to its members? For starters, it gives people within Kelowna, and surrounding areas, a lovely facility to compete, and attend clinics, at. There are lots of competitive opportunities for multiple types of riders, whether you’re looking to develop your skills or take your young horses on outings for experience, there’s something for everyone. Furthermore, it gives people an opportunity to contribute something towards the equestrian community. So many different disciplines are able to support each other, as Tracy states, “it does widen your sense of community within the equestrian disciplines.” Ultimately, KRC strives to keep the sport of horseback riding alive through family events, shows, and the upkeep of a useful facility for local riders. They have pulled through tough times with the dedicated support of the Kelowna equestrian community and are still going strong. If you live within the Kelowna, or surrounding, areas be sure to consider joining this incredible club!
Upcoming Events:
- May 2-4th Spring Classic Hunter-Jumper EC Bronze Show
- May 23-25th Ranch Riding Clinic & Show with Wendy Johnston
- June 7-8th Dance in the Vineyard Dressage Festival
Festival covers: Gold & Bronze Show Dressage Queens (& Kings)
Unite Long Table Dinner Wine Tasting Trivia Contest Demo (TBA)
- September 19-21 Working Equitation Clinic & Show
- October 4-5th Fall Finale Hunter-Jumper Show
HCBC Annual Awards Congratulations to the Winners for 2024!
HCBC’S ANNUAL AWARDS HONOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT WITHIN BC’S EQUINE COMMUNITY. THESE AWARDS ACKNOWLEDGE THOSE WHO STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD AND HAVE MADE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON THE EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY.
Congratulations to the worthy recipients of the Horse Council BC’s 2024 Awards! Each award winner will receive their award at an event of their own choosing throughout 2024. We received many outstanding nominations this year, so thank you to all who nominated someone and congratulations to our winners.
2024 Coach of the Year – Lizzie Gingras
2024 Bob James Volunteer of the Year – Avery Wilkinson
2024 Sherman Olson Lifetime Achievement Award – Bonnie Kennedy
The HCBC Awards program will be bringing some new categories for 2025 so stay tuned!
ATTENTION FARMERS AND RANCHERS!
The Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) Program is a no-cost, confidential, and province-wide program that provides BC farmers and ranchers with access to advisors to assist in the completion of their very own environmental plan. Discover how you can mitigate climate change and improve environmental conditions on your farm!
Ready to make improvements? With an eligible EFP, you can access cost-shared funding through the Beneficial Management Practices Program (BMP).
“Through upgrading our irrigation system, we will be able to grow other crops that will better utilize our environment and capabilities.”
Devin & Brittani Chursinoff
Ranch Owners and EFP & BMP Funding Recipients
Club Feature
Valley Riders Sparwood Society
The Valley Riders Sparwood Society is a small, but mighty, riding club that have seen a great comeback this past year. Established as a not-for-profit group in 2013, the group was able to put down roots in Sparwood where they now host a 200 x 100 arena and a 60ft round pen for member’s use. The pandemic affected a number of clubs in devastating ways, as many rely on membership funding and participation in club events. Wonderfully, for the first time since the pandemic, Valley Riders were able to hold a Gymkhana series this fall. Riders of all ages were encouraged to participate in the games, and that they did! Riders who exemplified club spirit were awarded prizes at their annual banquet. Categories included Cleanest Runs, True Grit, Brilliant Beginner and Most Improved, amongst many others. It is amazing to see clubs get back on their feet after a difficult few years and host fantastic community events such as these! The Gymkhana series isn’t the only notable event that the Valley Riders Sparwood Society have taken part in, they have hosted many more interesting events. They have participated in Sparwood’s annual Coal Miner’s Day parade and have hosted several barrel racing, pole bending, trick riding, and cowboy challenge events. Recently, they have even held barrel racing clinics with Chelsea Sanders!
The club enthused about their dedicated volunteers, noting that, “the club couldn’t run without the many dedicated volunteers who have helped over the years.” The Valley Riders Sparwood Society are a small club and funding is not in abundance so, they rely greatly on community support, which they have seen in spaces from the district of Sparwood. Their mission is to bring both equestrians, and non-equestrians, together through creating a sense of community and, through hard work and volunteers, they’ve been able to function well as a club. If you live within the Sparwood area, consider taking a look at this wonderful little club as the opportunities for prosperity and joy through community are endless!
SNOTTY NOSES IN HORSES SNOTTY NOSES IN HORSES
DO YOU NEED ANTIB DO YOU NEED ANTIB
Nasal discharge and coughing (aka "the snots") are commonly seen in horses
What to do? Most horses will feel better within 1 week (although the cough may last for a few weeks). Antibiotics do not speed recovery in most cases, and should never be used unless your veterinarian examines the horse and prescribes them. The colour and consistency of the nasal discharge do not determine whether antibiotics are needed.
BIOSECURITY AND VACCINATIONS ARE YOUR BEST TOOLS BIOSECURITY AND VACCINATIONS ARE YOUR BEST TOOLS
GOOD BIOSECURITY GOES A LONG WAY
Assume any respiratory disease is highly contagious! Until your veterinarian diagnoses the cause of the snotty nose or cough, the most important thing to do is to isolate the sick horse from others to reduce spread. Make sure to wash your hands, clothes, boots, and equipment before and after contact with the sick horse.
More information on biosecurity is available here.
PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN TREATMENT
Talk to your veterinarian about the safe and effective vaccines available for equine contagious respiratory diseases. These can prevent or greatly reduce illness and down time. The more horses that are vaccinated, the less the risk of spread and outbreaks.
REST AND TLC ARE KEY
Allow your horse with a cough and nasal discharge to take it easy. Monitor their appetite, drinking and manure production.
SNOTTY NOSES IN HORSES... SNOTTY NOSES IN HORSES...
DO YOU NEED ANTIBIOTICS? DO YOU NEED ANTIBIOTICS?
For horses with nasal discharge or coughing, you should call your veterinarian when you notice that your horse:
Has a fever Is in pain Is having difficulty breathing Is off feed or lethargic Is having persistent signs
Your veterinarian can determine if testing is needed if there is a high risk to other horses becoming sick (due to show, stable, travel, etc.).
ANTIBIOTICS DO NOT SPEED RECOVERY IN MOST CASES & SHOULD NEVER BE USED UNLESS YOUR VETERINARIAN EXAMINES THE HORSE AND PRESCRIBES THEM
ANTIBIOTICS DO NOT SPEED RECOVERY IN MOST CASES & SHOULD NEVER BE USED
UNLESS YOUR VETERINARIAN EXAMINES THE HORSE AND PRESCRIBES THEM
HOW YOUR VETERINARIAN CAN HELP
Your veterinarian can perform a thorough physical exam on your horse and provide great advice on best care.
They may also perform laboratory tests, such as:
RESPIRATORY PANEL PCR TESTS
This is used to figure out which virus or bacteria are present in the horse
It can give you a good idea of whether the sick horse is contagious to other horses or not
It can also guide treatment decisions and the time a horse should rest before returning to exercise
BC 55+ Games
Nanaimo 2025
THE BC 55+ GAMES ARE A WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY TO CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AND ARE PROOF THAT EQUESTRIANS ARE ACTIVE FOR LIFE!
The 55+ Games will be held September 9-13, 2025 and will see 25 sports and activities offered for the 2500+ anticipated participants.
The 55+ BC Games are an important part of the BC sport system and the largest annual multi-sport gathering event in the province. The Games offer the opportunity to celebrate sport and active living with other participants from across the province and experience the hospitality of the host city.
Each year the Games attract approximately 2,500 participants and require over 1,200 volunteers to stage and deliver the Games in the Host Community.
Participant registration for the Nanaimo 2025 55+ BC Games is scheduled to begin on March 1, 2025.
If you are interested in helping to bring the Games to Nanaimo as a volunteer, please visit the
Volunteer information page https://www.bcseniorsgames.net/ nan2025/DesktopDefault.aspx .
Equestrian Competition will be held at Beban Park Nanaimo.
Stay tuned for exciting information on the plans for major upgrades to the equestrian facility at Beban Park
Disciplines included in the 2025 55+ Games:
Dressage
Western Dressage
Driving Trials
Working Equitation
Working Hunter
Officials Development Upcoming Clinics
HCBC General Performance Judges Clinic with Jodie Moore
Jodie Moore is a carded judge with APHA,PTHA,ASHA,WRHA, EXCA and HCBC, and an APHA Professional Horseman. This is Jodie’s 40th year in the industry, and she and her clients have amassed World and National Championships and High Point All Arounds on the Paint, Pinto, Quarter horse, Appaloosa and Arabian circuits. Jodie runs her training and coaching business Freedom Farms Livestock out of Langley BC, along with her partner, TJ Bews and son Matthew, who also work in the movie horse business.
March 22-23, 2025
Prince George BC
Coast Prince George Hotel 770 Brunswick Street Prince George
Lunch and snacks provided
Cost 100.00
Registration closes March 18, 2025
Register at hcbc.online/EventReg
HCBC/EC Dressage Judges Clinic with Joan Macartney and Brenda Minor
HCBC /EC Dressage Judges Clinic happening July 25-27 during Canada Cup at Maple Ridge Equi Sport Centre. The clinic will be for HCBC maintenance and EC promotion/updating,
Dates: Friday July 25th 5pm: Classroom Session @ Sandman
Signature Hotel Langley,
Saturday July 26- Sunday July 27 Maple Ridge Equi Sport Centre in conjunction with Canada Cup,
Cost $250.00 + GST Open to everyone.
Register: hcbc.online/EventReg
HCBC has secured a block of rooms at a discounted rate for participants planning to attend the July EC/HCBC Dressage
Judges clinic with Joan Macartney and Brenda Minor.
Sandman Signature Hotel Langley Block Code: 2507HORSEC
Block ID: 519101
Joan Macartney: Joan Macartney is a Senior Dressage judge (FEI4*r) both with Equestrian Canada and US Equestrian where she judges primarily throughout Canada, the Americas and Australia. A highlight of her background has been her international work which has involved traveling and judging in a variety of countries - South/ Central America, South Africa, Eastern Europe are a few areas where she has judged and presented clinics. Working with youth and assisting in their development is always a priority. Having retired from a lengthy career in post-secondary education, Joan has become increasingly involved with the dressage community particularly in an educational role, presenting judges clinics, etc. Her riding and competition experience provides Joan with a true appreciation of the challenges in presenting a harmonious ride and achieving success in the dressage arena.
Brenda Minor: Brenda is an FEI Level 3/ 4* Dressage Judge, FEI Young Horse Judge, USDF and EC Senior Dressage Judge. She has judged throughout North and South America, England and Australia, as well as many championship shows and qualifiers including the North American Youth Championships. In 2019 she was honored to have been on the panel for the Pan Am Games in Lima, Peru. In 2022 she was a member of the panel at the Bolivarian Games in Bogota. She is a member of the EC Officials Committee, the EC Dressage Committee and is the Chair of Category A Voting Members. Brenda has been involved in dressage since the age of 18, competed herself at the Grand Prix level and is a popular clinician.
Equine Register
Protect your horse and rein in your admin
Horse Council British Columbia (HCBC) has partnered with Equine Register Canada (ERC) to improve horse identification and enhance biosecurity in the industry.
Understanding your horse’s breeding and medical history is key to ensuring you care for them in the best way possible. That’s why ERC has created the Canadian Equine Register; a centralised database that provides your horse with lifelong, verified identification. This means that you and future owners can rely on a complete, accurate history of your horse’s identity and health records.
Registration is free to every Canadian horse owner via ERC’s Digital Stable – a user-friendly platform available on web and mobile app. Designed to make life safer for your horse and easier for you, Digital Stable offers a range of fantastic features to help you streamline your admin and keep all your horse’s important documents up-to-date and instantly accessible. Integrated with Global Vet Link, you can seamlessly retrieve and store Coggins certificates - a must for competitors. The app also provides disease alerts of any outbreaks in your area, plus a cool GPS ride tracker for monitoring rides, tracking training and recreational activities.
Is your horse an escape artist? Digital Stable offers unique Lost and Found functionality including the option to purchase a HorseID tag with a QR code that links to your horse’s profile. The tags can be clipped onto halters or braided into manes or tails, allowing a finder to contact you for a speedy reunion.
All HCBC members receive a 15% discount on the Digital Stable Plus subscription, giving them access to all the amazing
Industry: Equine Code Training Program Available To Enhance Horse Welfare Standards Across Canada
January 8, 2025, Cochrane, AB – The Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada (HWAC) is reminding equine professionals, horse owners, caregivers, and animal welfare advocates that the Equine Code Training Program offers a valuable opportunity to enhance knowledge and skills in maintaining the highest standards of care for horses raised across Canada.
This comprehensive online training program is designed to help implement and uphold Canada’s Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Equines, providing participants with the essential knowledge needed to meet national animal welfare standards. Aimed at anyone involved in the care of equines, the program offers expert-led instruction and practical guidance for real-world farm management.
Canada’s Codes of Practice
Canada’s Codes of Practice for the Care and Handling of Farm Animals serve as the national framework for animal care requirements and recommended practices. There is a Code of Practice for almost every type of animal raised on farms across the country, including equines.
The Code development process is led by the National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC), which represents and involves a variety of stakeholders, including farmed animal industries, animal welfare organizations, retail and food service sectors, the veterinary community, government, and others interested in farmed animal care.
Why This Training Matters
HWAC’s Equine Code Training equips participants with the knowledge needed to implement the latest industry standards, grounded in scientific research, ensuring they are wellprepared to meet current equine welfare expectations.
“Whether you are an equine owner, caregiver, veterinarian, animal welfare officer, or simply passionate about equine well-being, this program provides an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of the equine Code and contribute to raising the standards for horse care across Canada,” explains Mikki Shatosky, HWAC Executive Director.
Key Features of the Equine Code Training Program:
• Expert-Developed Learning: The program is designed by specialists in equine welfare and care, ensuring participants receive up-to-date, evidence-based information.
• Affordable and Accessible: The training is cost-eMective at $25 and available online, allowing participants to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule.
Practical Applications: The program explains how to apply the equine Code in everyday horse care, including duty of care, housing, nutrition, health management, and overall care practices.
• Certification: Upon completion, participants may receive a certificate, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining high standards of equine care.
How to Access the Training
Interested individuals can sign up and begin the training at their convenience through the Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada’s website at www.horsewelfare.ca/equine-codetraining. By participating, you can help raise the bar for equine welfare standards across Canada, ensuring the responsible and humane treatment of horses. The course also helps those unfamiliar with equine care understand how horses are raised and cared for.
About the Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada (HWAC)
The Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of horses across the country. Through education, advocacy, and the development of animal welfare programs, HWAC works to ensure horses are treated with the care and respect they deserve. The Alliance actively supports the development and implementation of Canada’s Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Equines, advancing the standards for horse care on farms nationwide.
Contact:
Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada
Phone: (403) 870-8784
Email: info@horsewelfare.ca
Website: www.horsewelfare.ca
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