By Elisha Bradburn
Clinician Glenn Stewart with his Lusitanos Az & Avero
Mounted Shooters put on an impressive display
The Horse Expo Canada took place at Westerner Park in Red Deer, Alberta April 15-17, and was a truly celebratory event. Horse enthusiasts from every discipline gathered to learn, shop and be entertained!
T
he long awaited return of a world class horse event to Red Deer did not disappoint as Horse Expo Canada hosted a 3-Day colt starting challenge. The Trainer’s Showdown featured an all-Canadian trio of talented horsemen, Kade Mills, Jason Irwin and Trevor Mertes. All three gentlemen put forth an amazing display of horsemanship with three previously untrained 3-year-old colts provided by Rocking Heart Ranch, in 5 sessions, over the 3 days. The colts went from barely being halter trained, to being saddled and ridden, and walked, jogged and loped through an obstacle course. Trainer Jason Irwin was so confident in the foundation he had on his colt, he was able to stand on his saddled colt’s back cracking a bullwhip! Seasoned colt starter Kade Mills ended up with the win, earning 1298 of the possible 1650 points. The rigorous judging process was done
20 • JUNE 2022
SADDLEUP.CA
by a panel of 3 experienced judges, who judged confidentially and independently of each other. Judging was focused on how successfully the trainers could work through challenges and communicate with their colt. There was emphasis on recognizing, through body language, where the colt is at mentally, and prioritizing leaving them in a good place at the end of each session. All of the trainers put forth a truly impressive performance of their skills under pressure. Along with the Trainer’s Showdown showcasing some amazing horsemanship, there were many other opportunities for expo attendees to soak in some learning. World-renowned clinicians, including Glenn Stewart, Barbara Schulte, Hugh Graham and Cindy Ishoy, presented on various fascinating topics over the weekend. There were also a variety of educational demonstrations to take in from saddle fitting, to alternative forms of sports therapy and body work for horses, to breed displays. Along with all the knowledge being shared, there was a bustling exchange in the shopper’s paradise of all things “horse” in the Trade Show. The Trade Show featured everything from Expo organizers Marg Schulz & Ryan Gordon with Trainer's Showdown Winner Kade Mills
