A Beef Wellington Christmas Dinner BY MIKE EDGAR
Chief Crowfoot
BY DEBBIE MACRAE
The Year That Wasn’t BY JENN WEBSTER
Horsemanship • Culture • Style
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How many sport associations navigated their way through 2020.
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FIREWATERCANYON Fire Water Flit × Mulberry Canyon Moon, Marthas Six Moons si 99
FIREWATER CANYON HAS BARREL EARNERS OF $121,279 WITH JUST 19 RUNNING
Dash Ta Fire Canyon (2015 Mare out of Frenchmans Cinnemon by
Patriots Firewater (2015 Gelding out of JJ Lady by Game
Patriot) won 1st BFA World Juv Futurity Go1 2D, 10th in 2019 Pink Buckle Open 4D Rd 1. Owned by Karl Smith/Flare Up Farms and ridden by Dani Lynne Smith. OLIE MOSS PHOTO
Bug On Firewater (2016 Mare out of Ima Burr Bug by Burrs First Down) won the 4D Open Average at the Ruby Buckle in Guthrie worth $21,719. Ridden by Billie Ann Harmon this mare is owned by Flare Up Farms. OLIE MOSS PHOTO
Frenchmans Guy), owned by Charlie Kendall, ridden by Ryann Pedone, won $32,501 at 2019 Pink Buckle Futurity, 7th in 1D Average and 3rd 1st Go. Qualified 2019 Ft Smith Futurity Finals from the consolation round. 2019 BFA Futurity Finals Top 50 Qualifier in Guthrie Oklahoma. FWC’s sire, Fire Water Flit is a legend in the barrel horse industry as a performer and sire, whose progeny This mare is FWC’s top money earner $42,297. OLIE MOSS PHOTO
have earned more than $5 million with World Champions and NFR Qualifiers, FWC’s dam, Mulberry Canyon Moon, has $400,000+ in Rodeo and EquiStat earnings and is an NFR multiple go-round winner. And now she has produced EquiStat earners of $569,892 with just 10 running. FEE $2500 cooled semen available Standing at Copper Spring Ranch NM 654A Riata Road, Tularosa NM 88352
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Vol. 27 No. 6 November/December 2020 EDITORIAL For EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES e-mail editorial@westernhorsereview.com Publishers CLAY & JENN WEBSTER Editor JENN WEBSTER Art Direction and Production KENDRA ROBERTS Advertising For ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: (403) 250-1128 or advertising@westernhorsereview.com
Noémy Coeurjoly recently used her trick riding skills to advance to the finals of Talen Bleu in Quebec. Watch her video as she moves closer to the $100,000 prize.
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BAR XP PHOTO Jessica Cline Mike Edgar Suzanne Hale Lorie Inglis Kathie MacKenzie Lee McLean Debbie MacRae Kass Patterson Piper Whelan Provincial Archives of Alberta Shellie Scott Photography Dina Sutherland Tru Equine Photography Twisted Tree Photography Wildwood Imagery Published six times a year by: WESTERN PERFORMANCE PUBLISHING INC. Suite 814, 3545 - 32 Ave. NE, Calgary, Alberta T1Y 6M6 (403) 250-1128 editorial@westernhorsereview.com www.westernhorsereview.com Western Horse Review is a proud member of the Alberta Magazine Publishers Association www.albertamagazines.com, abiding by the standards of the Canadian Society of Magazine Publishers
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Behind the scenes of our Christmas tree cover shoot.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
CONTENTS Out West 8 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 10 LEAD LINE Chief Crowfoot, soldier of Peace. 12 OUT WEST Ranch dogs are part of the western lifestyle and the lifestyle
32
Page A Symbol of Hope
is inevitably, part of them.
14 16
16
OUT WEST The strangest horse happenings of 2020. FACEBOOK FEEDBACK We asked WHR readers, “What is the greatest lesson your horse ever taught you?” WESTERN INSIDER Noémy Coeurjoly, now of Nanton, AB, recently used her trick riding skills to advance to the finals of television show Talen Bleu in Quebec.
Western Christmas 17
COMFORT & JOY! The start of our western Christmas feature. Discover some of the best gift ideas this year by shopping local, create some new family traditions and read about a western culture symbol of hope.
18 FOOD OF THE WEST Chef Mike Edgar serves up a brilliant Beef
Wellington and hollandaise sauce – an unconventional (but maybe your new favourite!) Christmas dinner.
22 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Every item in our Gift Guide this year comes
from a Canadian company. Get your loved ones all the items they want by shopping local!
30 BUILDING ON TRADITION Our spotlight is on Alberta Boot Co.
this issue, an iconic western boot company carrying on more than 40 years of tradition.
34 A SYMBOL OF HOPE As 2020 draws to a close, it’s fitting to showcase
a rare symbol of strength and hope in our western heritage, following a year of unconventional change.
2020 Show Coverage
39 REGAINING THE LOSS OF A SEASON The Northern Alberta
Reined Cow Horse Club makes the most of a lost show season with an epic year-end event.
46 REINING ALBERTA Highlights from the 2020 Reining Alberta year. 50 KICKING THE DUST UP With incredible organization, the 24th annual
National Team Penning Finals found a way to proceed in 2020.
54 CHUCKWAGON RACING The horizon is riddled with a lot of
uncertainty for Canadian chuckwagon drivers.
58 THE BACK FORTY This edition of Lee McLean’s column tackles a
heavy subject, but with rural domestic violence on the rise, something needs to be done to challenge the alarming statistics.
6 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
BAR XP PHOTO
ON THE COVER: Cowboy and rancher, Kendall Miller picks out the perfect tree for a western Christmas. Photo by BAR XP Photo. Find him on Instagram.
November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 7
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
BAR XP Photo
We wish you all the very best this holiday season! BAR XP Photo
MAKING THE MOST OF EVERYTHING
G
rowing up as the young child of a single mother, I remember a couple of tough Christmases. Money was tight, stress was high and my mother secretly worried about how she was going to pay rent. Not to mention how she would create a joyful holiday occasion for my sister and I. Of course, we were oblivious to her concerns as we carried along in the blissful day-to-day of toddlers. What I remember of those trying times were hand-baking ornaments out of dough, because we had no decorations for the tiny tree my mom managed to scrape together a few dollars for. None of them had any colour – they were all brown from varnish and we baked paper clips in the tops of each, so we could string green wool through the tops to hang them. I was so proud, in particular, of the hand-rolled candy canes I made. As a four-year-old, some of the more intricate designs were better suited for Mom. To date, my mother still decorates her tree with some of those decorations. They didn’t cost a penny and they maintain the same brown color. Yet, they withstood the test of time. And after all these years, they serve as reminders of one of the most important lessons of my life.
Make the most of it.
After all this time, I worry that my mother still frets about those Christmases. There were few material gifts for us under the tree but the truth is, she gave us something much more precious. Much more important. At four-years-old, I learned how to use what I had. How to make the most of it. And it turned out okay. That lesson has proven invaluable this year. In 2020, “making the most of it” has become my mantra. I only hope I can pass it on to my children as well as my mother did for us. In this issue you will find many examples of other people who are making the most of 2020. From the show associations who found ways to get things done and hold events this year, to the entrepreneurs who pivoted and put their energy into their own 8 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
businesses. You’ll find many of their items in our Christmas Gift Guide, starting on page 22 because we know how important it is to support local these days. In our event coverage, Kass Patterson also brings us up to speed on the world of chuckwagon racing. We also celebrate the efforts of Reining Alberta this year and get highlights from the 2020 National Team Penning Finals. Kudos to everyone who found ways to make it work in 2020. A big thanks goes out to BAR XP PHOTO who has become a regular contributor to Western Horse Review in recent days. BAR XP PHOTO is fronted by the talented Kirk Prescott and we love his writing and photos. You can find his work on page 34 in A Symbol of Hope, which features some rare Alberta white bison and the spiritual meaning behind them. It’s a little bit of what the world needs right now. As always, we hope you enjoy the issue! - Jenn Webster Send your comments, questions, letters or story ideas to me at editorial@westernhorsereview.com. We may include them in an upcoming edition of Western Horse Review.
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LEADLINE CHIEF CROWFOOT – SOLDIER OF PEACE BORN IN 1830 NEAR THE BELLY RIVER IN SOUTHERN ALBERTA, his infant name was Shot Close. His parents, Istowun-eh’pata (Packs a Knife) and Axkahp-say-pi (Attacked Towards Home) were Kainai or Blood, of the Blackfoot Confederacy, which also included the Blackfoot and Piegan peoples. If their names were any indication, the times were troubled and warring factions, prevalent. When he was five-years-old, his father was killed by rivalling Crow, and a year later his mother remarried a man (Many Names) from the neighbouring Siksika Nation. Determined not to be left behind, the young boy trailed his departing mother and her new husband as they left the Kanai to travel back to Siksika. He followed the two on foot for several hours, eventually inducing them to turn around and bring both the youngster and his grandfather, Scabby Bull, back to become members of the Blackfoot Tribe. He was then given the name Bear Ghost, and would later inherit his father’s name Istowun-eh’pata or Packs a Knife. As a youth he proved himself a formidable opponent and a respected warrior. He earned the name “Crow Indian’s big foot,” after getting wounded during a raid for horses on a Crow camp. That name was later shortened to Crowfoot by interpreters. He was in 19 battles before the age of 20, and his most serious wound occurred after being shot in the back during a Shoshoni winter raid. The lead ball was never removed and in his later years, he would be limited in his riding ability and travels. With that constant reminder, his resolve turned to raising horses and addressing tribal affairs, and with the death of Three Suns, his band chief, Crowfoot became a minor chief of the Blackfoot tribe, although neither Blackfoot, nor from a family of chiefs. His bravery and determination earned him respect among the Blackfoot people, however, it was his skill as a diplomat and a voice of peace that raised his profile with the local white population. In 1865, he rescued an Oblate missionary, Father Albert Lacombe, while Fr. Lacombe was visiting a Blackfoot camp east of Hobbema, Alberta. It was attacked by Crees and after several hours, Father Lacombe tried to intervene and call a truce, but the Cree did not recognize him and he was shot by a ricocheting bullet. Crowfoot arrived with a legion of warriors and the outcome of battle was dramatically altered. His peace keeping missions were many. He established relationships with fur-traders, missionaries and Hudson’s Bay personnel. In 1866 he intervened between the Blackfoot and HBCo. and prevented the deaths of the Metis drivers during an attempted looting of their caravan. Then despite outrage on the part of other warrior chiefs, he escorted the Metis back to Fort Edmonton. He was one of the surviving Head Chiefs after the smallpox epidemic of 1869-70, but in 1873, his eldest son was killed in a raid on a Cree camp and he vowed vengeance on the camp. He personally led a raid against the Cree and killed a
10 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
tribe member. During the raid, a young man was captured who bore a startling resemblance to Crowfoot’s deceased son. Crowfoot adopted him, took him for his own son and gave him his son’s name. In a twist of irony, that young man would later return to his own people and become the Chief Poundmaker, who would be arrested during the Northwest Rebellion of 1885. He too, would leave a legacy as a peacemaker, despite charges of treason and imprisonment during the rebellion, and he too, would die at Blackfoot Crossing, Alberta. During the Rebellion, Crowfoot tried to remove himself and his people from the battle, remaining neutral for as long as possible, despite the fact that his adopted son, Poundmaker, was in the midst of the conflict. During the fighting, agents from both sides tried to gain his support, and that of the Blackfoot nation, but Crowfoot was aware they would be limited in their success. It was primarily due to respect for Crowfoot that the warriors refrained from engaging in the conflict. Chief Crowfoot worked hard to maintain peace and build relationships for the safety and security of his people. He quelled uprisings imminent with the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railroad. He established friendships with Sam Steele and the North-West Mounted Police in an effort to curtail and contain the illegal activities of American wolfers and whiskey traders. In 1876, when the Plains Indians and US cavalry were fighting, Crowfoot’s support was summoned once again, when a Sioux messenger was sent to ask the Blackfeet to join the fight. The request was made such that, once the Sioux had defeated the Americans, they would then help the Blackfeet to overcome the NWMP. Crowfoot’s reaction was staunch. Not only did he reject the offer but counselled the Sioux that he would stand by his commitment to the NWMP north of the border and would join the police to fight the Sioux if they came north. When they eventually did, as refugees after the Battle of the Little Bighorn, Crowfoot extended his hand in friendship to Chief Sitting Bull while he was in exile in Canada. Sitting Bull was so impressed with Crowfoot that he named his own son Crow Foot. Chief Crowfoot was invited, along with members of the Blackfoot, Blood, Piegan, Sarcee, and Stony tribes to negotiate Treaty #7 with the Canadian government. He was mistakenly considered to be the leader and head spokesman of the entire Blackfoot Confederation, which created friction between the leaders. However, with his usual diplomacy, he consulted with the other nations and refused all offers of rations or money until the terms of the treaty were complete. The treaty was signed September 22, 1877. In 2008, Chief Crowfoot was inducted into the North American Railway Hall of Fame for his contribution in helping the Government of Canada to facilitate completion of the railway in western Canada. Canadian CPR President William Van Horne had given him a lifetime pass to travel on the Canadian Pacific Railway. He was further remembered in 2009, when a Calgary light rail transit station was named in his honour.
Chief Crowfoot left a cultural legacy of influence unrivalled by any other in western Canada. He was a soldier; a visionary; a diplomat; a leader; a policeman; a politician and a perpetrator of peace. His legacy is memorialized at the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park in Siksika, and Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Highway #785, Fort Macleod, Alberta. His influence endures as he is also considered as one of the eight nominees short-listed by the Bank of Canada on November 10, 2020, to be the face of the new $5 bill. ~ By Debbie MacRae
View of Chief Dick Bad Boy and Chief Crowfoot on horseback at Calgary Stampede. Photo A11292 appears courtesy of the Provincial Archives of Alberta.
November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 11
OUTWEST
RANCH DOGS
12 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
BAR XP PHOTO
IS THERE ANYTHING HAPPIER THAN A FARM DOG IN HIS ELEMENT? For the most part they run free, have space to roam, raise hell with the barn cats and come home to a good meal every night. They have regular interaction with other animals and often, humans too. Ranch dogs are a staple in the western lifestyle and any rural property without one may cause an outsider to raise their eyebrows. Canines improve the scenery but not only that, a good cow dog at the ready when working livestock is a like having a secret weapon in your back pocket. Some of these animals are fiercely loyal to their people or families and as such, consider their jobs as “protectors” to be of the utmost importance. In one minute, they can be aggressive to anything they consider a threat to their people and in the next, they want to crawl into your lap. Cattle dogs also typically come with a lot of energy, which is why farms and ranches make for their perfect homes. Having the opportunity to run for miles and miles is vital to their well-being – they don’t do well as “balcony dogs” in the concrete jungle. They thrive on having a job and if you as the owner don’t give them one, they will find something to do on their own. (Translation: chew shoes, chew up the garbage, chew up the laundry bin… you get the idea). Ranch dogs come in a variety of breeds, sizes and colours and rural folk typically have their favorites. However one thing is certain, if you’re lucky enough to have a ranch dog embrace you or your family as his “people,” you will have a devoted bond for life. ~ Jenn Webster
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OUTWEST AS WE APPROACH THE END OF 2020 and reflect back, it’s crazy to think about the events of the past year. In fact, some of the events were the strangest of the strange… Yet, what might be even odder is the notion that we began to accept them as normal, almost cliché. “Well, it is 2020 after all…” became catchphrase. With that in mind, here are five of the strangest happenings we noticed in the horse world this year. 1.GIRL JUMPS LIKE A HORSE - Yes, you read that correctly. Ava Vogel, an Edmonton, AB, teenager made international news this year when she was scouted by Ripley’s Believe It or Not for its newest book. On her hands and feet, Vogel can gallop and hurdle over obstacles and mimic a horse. The highest she’s jumped is almost four feet in height. And if you don’t believe us, find her on Instagram @__jumping.like.a.horse__.
and as such, allow people in the wider area a better chance to visualize the police. However, the recent use of equines by demonstrators in civil rights protests across the US this year have flipped the mounted police narrative on its head. Black cowboys and cowgirls showed up on horseback in several demonstrations fighting for racial justice. Their equine partners gave them the edge they needed, capturing the attention of media, celebrities and inspiring the general public across the globe. 3. FRANCE’S EQUINE MUTILATIONS - Since the start of the year, France has experienced numerous horse slashings across the country. Some animals have been mutilated, while others have died as a result of injuries. The national police confirmed in a press release that almost 200 investigations were in progress as we neared the end of 2020. With no suspects, nor motives for the atrocious acts, horse owners began to take matters into their own hands by using drones to supervise pastures at night, installing electrified gates and surveillance cameras and placing locks wherever needed. Increased police efforts were also made, including an agreement between horse organizations in the country and authorities to
BAR XP PHOTO
2. HORSES USED IN PROTESTS - It’s not uncommon for horses to be used in protests. For ages, they have been ridden by mounted police during riots and demonstrations. They offer added height and visibility that officers wouldn’t normally have on their own two feet
THE YEAR THAT WASN’T
14 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
reinforce efforts in the prevention of attacks against horses in the country. 4. NO DERBY SPECTATORS - For the first time since the 1945 Kentucky Derby was affected by World War II, Churchill Downs was forced to move the 2020 Kentucky Derby from its historical first Saturday in May, to September 5, due to the pandemic. Officials also ran the event without spectators, citing increasing cases of COVID-19 in the area – making it the first ever Kentucky Derby to run without fans. 5. COWBOY SECURITY INFLUENCES THE WORLD - When the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, OK, closed down earlier this year, they decided to put their head of security, Tim Send, in charge of social media. The decision proved to be a brilliant one as Send, who was unfamiliar with Twitter, Instagram and selfies at the time, struggled hilariously through posts and tweets. With access to the entire museum on his own, Send captured the hearts and attention of the world with his innocent approach to the internet – becoming an international social media darling in the process. ~ Jenn Webster
r Bette Than Home
A Charitable Equine Organization funding: veterinary colleges and students and other worthwhile equine causes. www.equinefoundation.ca Bob Watson, President 403.378.4323 bob@equinefoundation.ca
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WESTERN INSIDER FACEBOOK FEEDBACK
We asked WHR readers – What’s the most important lesson your horse ever taught you? You answered:
“
How to relax yet concentrate and remain confident at the same time.” ~ Gary Hawkins
“
With trust your horse will never let you lose your seat. If you’re lost in the mountains they will get you back, even if it is pitch black. If there is danger, such as a big bear, they will not move a muscle until it’s safe.” ~ Marva Maring
“
Patience, everything good comes in time…” ~ Cindy Sergerie
“ To let go of my ego.” ~ Linda Worthington
“
To let go of the past. Start each day with a fresh and positive outlook and things are not as scary as your mind makes them out to be.” ~ Joan Kay
“
That sometimes you have to trust and let go of the reins.” ~ Beth Matich
“
Be only in the moment. Ignore the outside influences and eyes. Be the boss mare.” ~ Nikki Roper
“
To not give up when you get frustrated. She was a pain in the butt to catch in the field but if she thought you’d never give up she’d come to me.”~ Neal Waterston
“
Determination, the guts to climb back on and not to hold a grudge.” ~ Lydia Holter
“
A horse will always find it’s way home, even in the black of night during a blizzard ! And a horse knows how to count, put three carrots in your pocket only give him two and see what happens.” ~ John Davison
Noémy Coeurjoly (Nanton, AB), recently used her trick riding skills to advance to the finals of a television show called Talen Bleu in Quebec. Couerjoly is a former WHR cover girl and both of the horses she uses in the show, Frosty and Matisse, have been featured in the magazine as well. Talen Bleu is a well-known televised Quebec talent competition and the winner receives $100,000. Coeurjoly is definitely the first, and only horsewoman in the competition. She
16 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
advanced from the semi-finals on November 18, 2020 and the finals occur on December 4. Contestants advance if they receive the majority of votes from the public. To learn more, check out www.noovo.ca.
YOUR GUIDE TO A
Twisted Tree Photography
WEST E R N
Local Shopping Gift Ideas, A Magical Feast, Plus Our Western Heritage Symbol of Hope November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 17
FOOD OF THE WEST
WOW-FACTOR Beef Wellington and Holiday Hollandaise
18 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
BEEF WELLINGTON 1.5 Kg Beef Fillet 2 Tsp Vegetable or Sunflower Oil 2 x 50g Pack Dried Porcini Mushrooms 25g butter, plus extra for the sauce 500g (1 lb. 2oz) Shitake Mushrooms, Finely Chopped Handful Fresh Thyme Leaves 6 Slices Prosciutto 1 x 500g Pack Lighter All-Butter Puff Pastry Plain Flour, for Dusting 1 Egg, Beaten to Glaze 1/2 Cup of Dijon Mustard
For the Sauce 500ml (½pt) Good-Quality Beef Stock 1 Bottle 750ml Shiraz
METHOD
A twist on a classic. This crowdpleasing beef wellington is a perfect centrepiece for your next Christmas dinner. If it doesn’t steal the show, the side dishes definitely will! By MIKE
EDGAR
Photos By TWISTED TREE PHOTOGRAPHY
1. Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Heat the oil in a large frying pan. Sear the meat for 30 seconds on all sides until turning golden. Leave to cool. 2. Meanwhile, soak the porcini mushrooms in 250ml (8fl oz) boiling water until softened. Remove from the liquid, squeeze dry, then chop finely. Reserve the soaking liquid. 3. Heat the butter in a large frying pan. Add the mushrooms and the thyme. Cook until golden and the pan is dry (up to 20 minutes). Leave to cool completely. Reserve a quarter of the mushrooms in the pan. 4. Put two large sheets of clingfilm on a work surface, overlapping slightly. Place the prosciutto on top, overlapping the edges to make one ‘sheet’ large enough to wrap the beef. Spread with three November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 19
quarters of the mushroom mixture, then sit the meat on top and spread with the remaining mushrooms. Rub the beef with the Dijon Mustard and then roll the prosciutto around the beef, using the clingfilm. Wrap tightly and chill for 10 minutes. 5. Set aside a quarter of the pastry. On a floured surface, roll the rest into a square or rectangle big enough to wrap the fillet: approximately 35cm (14-inch) square. Trim to neaten, then roll the edges of the joining sides a little more thinly. 6. Remove the clingfilm from the beef and position it in the middle of the pastry. Wrap the pastry up along the length of the beef, overlapping slightly at the join. Brush the edges with beaten egg and seal. Fold up each end like a parcel. Transfer to a lightly greased baking tray, seam side down. Roll out the remaining pastry and cut shapes to decorate. Brush the Wellington all over with egg, press on the decorations and brush again. Chill for 20 minutes (or up to 12 hours if you like). 7. Preheat the oven to gas 8, 230째C, fan 210째C and put a baking sheet in the top third. To make the sauce, pour the wine into the pan with the reserved mushrooms. Bring to the boil and simmer until the wine has reduced to about one tablespoon. Add the stock and the porcini mushroom liquid and boil for 10 minutes until syrupy. Season, then stir in one teaspoon of butter. Set aside. 8. Put the Wellington and its tray onto the heated baking sheet in the oven and roast for 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to gas 6, 200째C, fan 180째C, then cook for another 20 minutes for medium-rare meat (15 for rare, 25 for medium). 9. Leave to rest for 10 minutes. Warm the sauce through. Serve slices of the Wellington with the sauce and vegetables.
ROASTED GARLIC MASHED POTATOES 1 Bulb Garlic, Intact Olive Oil Salt and Pepper 6 Large Russett Potatoes, Peeled and Cut into 1-inch Chunks 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter, at Room Temperature 1 Tsp Salt, Plus More as Needed 1 Cup Milk, Plus More as Needed Minced Chives, for Garnish (Optional) 20 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
METHOD
1. Preheat the oven to 375˚ F. Use a sharp knife to slice off the top end so that the bulb remains intact and all of the cloves are exposed. Place on a piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Fold the foil around the bulb so that it is completely covered and bake until the cloves are tender, about 40 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool at least 10 minutes before handling. When cool enough to handle, squeeze the bulb so that the softened cloves fall out. Discard the peels. Use the tines of a fork to mash the roasted garlic into a paste. Set aside.
2. Place the chopped potatoes in a large stockpot and cover with water. Cover and bring to a boil. Continue to cook uncovered until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-18 minutes. Drain well. 3. Return the potatoes to the warm pot. Add in the butter, salt, milk, and the roasted garlic paste. With an electric mixer, beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, adding more milk as needed. Avoid over-beating. *Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Garnish with minced chives. Serve warm.
ROASTED ASPARAGUS WITH HOLLANDAISE Roasted Asparagus 1 Bunch Asparagus Stalks 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil Large Pinch Sea Salt Black Pepper to Taste Hollandaise for Two 2 Egg Yolks 1.5 Tsp. Lemon Juice 1/4 Cup Butter Melted Pinch Sea Salt Pinch Black Cracked Pepper METHOD There are lots of methods to use when making hollandaise. While I want to be a purist and use a double-boiler, I must admit – I have an immersion blender and it is pretty fool proof. These recipes easily double, triple, quadruple, etc. Make hollandaise for a crowd, by golly! Whichever method you use, here are your options:
Immersion Blender: Place egg yolks and lemon juice in a tall-sided container that isn’t too wide (think a quart-sized soup container). With the immersion blender, combine the egg yolk and lemon juice briefly. Continue to run the immersion blender and dribble in the melted butter. Add a little sea salt and black pepper. You’re done! Blender: Place egg yolks and lemon juice in the blender. Pulse briefly to combine. Turn the blender on a low setting, take either the whole lid or just that little plastic part in the top off and slow drizzle in the melted butter. Add a little sea salt and black pepper. You’re done!
Double-boiler: Fill a medium pot with a few inches of water. Set on medium-high heat. Place a bowl over the top of the pot, making sure its large enough that the bottom of the bowl does not touch the boiling water underneath. Place egg yolks and lemon juice in the bowl. Begin whisking until combined. Slowly dribble melted butter in, whisking continuously. Add a little sea salt and black pepper. Finito. Stove-top: NOTE: Don’t pre-melt your butter! Simply cut the butter into little pads. Set a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Moving quickly, whisk the eggs and lemon juice together in the pan. Slowly add a pad or two of butter at a time, whisking continuously and removing the pan from the heat if you feel a curdle coming on. Add a little sea salt and black pepper. Again, you’re all finished! If however, you’re not done, and your hollandaise broke and isn’t a gloriously, smooth sauce – beat an additional egg yolk in a separate bowl and slowly whisk into the broken sauce, bit by bit. That should do the trick.
About the Chef: Mike Edgar graduated from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in the Culinary Arts. He stayed in Calgary, AB working at some of the city’s top restaurants. In 2007, he opened his own restaurant in Calgary’s east end. After eight years of being a chef there, Edgar decided to take a step back and left the industry to spend more time with his son. His son has now expressed an interest in learning his father’s skills and in horses simultaneously. November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 21
We’re all about making the best of the season and shopping local this year! Here are some wonderful ideas for new family traditions and gift giving suggestions. Whether you’re into making memories or just making someone happy, you’re guaranteed to find some new Christmas treasures within these pages. By Jenn Webster
Make a statement with one of these unique and custom jackets from Prairie Girl Couture. Available in either denim or sherpalined coats, each piece is up-cycled with Pendleton wool sewn on the front and back panels. No two are the same. Ranging from $80-$110. www.prairiegirlcouture.com 22 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
A wild rag from Pale Horse Ranch is on everyone’s list this year. Handmade in Alberta, these stylish and warm rags are 100% silk and every purchase of one means a 5% donation is sent back to a local charity. Be cozy and feel good about how they support your community. $60 www.palehorseranch.ca
These splash-happy rain boots from Pendleton, available in. Various styles at Classic Rodeo Boutique have cushioned insoles, moisture-wicking linings and iconic designs. Starting at $189. Find Classic Rodeo on Facebook.
Get your loved one a pair of excellently manufactured boots, handcrafted right in Calgary, AB. Utilizing the finest materials available to ensure fit, comfort and durability Alberta Boot Company is the place to visit for boot styles in a variety of colors and materials in men’s and ladies styles. Prices range from $375.00 to $2,100. www.albertaboot.com
The Comfort-Fit SMx Air Ride Saddle Pad from Professional’s Choice is contoured to follow the curve of the horse’s spine. As a result, the pad locks in place on the horse’s back, allowing full movement. The SMx Air Ride core absorbs shock and improves saddle fit for ultimate equine comfort. $320. www.lammles.com
Twisted Tree Photography
Twisted Tree Photography
PRESENTS FOR EVERYONE
With some of the boldest, prettiest prints around, Brown Creek Wild Rags make perfect Christmas treasures. These silk scarves are available in a variety of sizes, hand-sewn in Alberta and made from quality fabric and thread. Brown Creek also offers digitizing and can add your letter brand or company logo to any scarf! Starting at $55. www.browncreekwildrags.com
Customize your walls with coverings detailing your western lifestyle from renowned Alberta artist, Shannon Lawlor. This dynamic and daring wallpaper is uniquely designed in a variety of patterns and steeped with authenticity. All styles make for a strong compliment to any West inspired décor. From $5 USD. slcheval.com November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 23
MORE GREAT IDEAS
Featuring the colourful and spirited bronc ride, Kicking Holes in the Sky from Shannon Lawlor is the perfect way to compliment any cowboy or cowgirl’s outfit. This pop of colour will be sure to add a versatile staple to your wardrobe. $55. www.shannonlawlor.com
This colorful horse stable from Schleich boasts a lot of fun features and endless fun for little cowpokes! With seven cute animals, two horse boxes, farmers Paul and Laura and lots of accessories, it is easy to reproduce the daily work on the farm. Our favourite part are the little ducklings on the seesaw. $160. www.lammles.com
Look stylish and warm at the same time with 1/4 zip sherpa pullover from Wrangler featuring side seam pockets and sherpa lined inner collarband. Available at Lammle’s Western Wear. $89. www.lammles.com
From jewelry, to headbands, earrings and more, Prairie Girl Couture (PGC) offers everything a cowgirl needs to dress up her outfit. PCG is a mobile and online boutique based out of Saskatoon, passionate about bringing in pieces that are fun and functional in any horse sport, or capable of “ranch-ing up” your going-to-town clothes. Inquire for pricing. prairiegirlcouture.com 24 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
P E R F EC T C H R IST M A S G IF T S!
These gauntlet gloves in supple deer skin by Patricia Wolf are hand-painted and available from Classic Rodeo Boutique. With a flourish of fringe, the soft leather they are made from will conform to your hand and become a part of you. Great for trail rides, home town parades, and staying warm on wintry days. $289. Find Classic Rodeo on Facebook.
from
BROWN CREEK gs Wild Ra
free shipping on standard
He’ll love a new lid from Smithbilt Hats under the tree this Christmas! Choose from hundreds of colours and styles in felt or straw versions and celebrate his western lifestyle with a hat crafted in Alberta. Prices start at $60. www.smithbilthats.com
orders
Call 1-877-625-4032 for ordering and retail locations www.browncreekwildrags.com
This crossbody tote from Twisted X, has lots of room on the inside to carry her wallet and any items she may need for the day. The bag features a tooled leather, cowhide and stud detail bag closure and adjustable strap, leather fringe detail on the sides, zipper closure and woven Aztec pattern on the front and back. $250. www.lammles.com
Get your kids off their iPads and outdoors this winter with a dune buggy GIO GT125 from Dog Bone Recreational. With a 120cc, four-stroke, singlecylinder, air cooled engine, automatic transmission and electric start, this model is great for children ages five to ten. $2,154. www.dogbonerec.com
Create the perfect Christmas table or gift someone with festive placemats, custom designed to your personal needs. Hitch N Stitch Design is an Alberta company that can craft these linen placemats (set of four) exactly as you’d like them, creating a perfectly, thoughtful and meaningful gift. $45/set. www.hitchnstitchdesign.net
Finally, scotch mints made just for horses! Rewardz Horse Treats Inc. recently launched a classic peppermint treat that will be sold across Canada through tack stores and equine retailers. Made with natural peppermint oil and registered with the Animal Feed Division of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Rewardz Horse Treats are are proudly made in Canada. Find them on Facebook. 26 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
Need to give your arena an edge? The EquiGroomer-QD from Conterra can be pulled by an ATV or compact tractor and offers superior subsurface preparation. The easy-to-read depth gauge shows you how deep you’re grooming, allowing the operator to adjust as required – creating the perfect arena surface every time. Inquire for pricing. www.conterragroomers.com
FUN CHRISTMAS TREATS Have you ever made maple syrup snow candy? This year would be a great time to try it out with your family! It’s easy. Get yourself 100% pure maple syrup and then prep some snow. You can either pack the snow down in a section of clean snow outside, or on a baking sheet. The snow needs to be firmly packed so it can hold hot syrup.
MAKE SNOW CANDY Maple Syrup and Snow! Doesn’t get much easier!
Heat the syrup in a pot until boiling. Remove from heat and immediately (and carefully) pour the melted liquid into lines on your packed snow. Use a popsicle stick to press into the syrup and roll it up around the stick. Or you can also pour the syrup into small splashes on the snow and use a spoon to scoop it up in smaller pieces.
For the Rock and Roll Cowgirl and Cowboy in your life Locally Made in Alberta Hand made 100% Silk Wildrags Skull Creations and Western Accessories
WILDRA
GS AND SKULL CREATIONS
b Curated Western Fashion b Custom Denim b Graphic Tees b Vintage Pieces COUTURE www.palehorseranch.ca
palehorseyyc@gmail.com
A mobile and online boutique
Gift certificates available • prairiegirlcouture@gmail.com Check out Facebook and Instagram to shop our online boutique November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 27
These adorable, cowl neck sweaters are hand-made from the coziest fleece patterns. Choose from the Sunset, Cayuse, Brumby or Coyote designs. Allow Prairie Girl Couture two weeks to make your custom sweater. $85. www.prairiegirlcouture.com
These beautiful tea towels, set of three, are ideal gift for a neighbour or friend. Made from 100% cotton and sizing 18” x 28”, the towels can be embroidered exactly as you’d like. Put a brand on them or even an adorable Christmas theme. Crafted by Hitch N Stitch Design. $25/set. www.hitchnstitchdesign.net
Looking to impress?
IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, IT , IT.. WE CAN STITCH IT We are a full-service shop specializing in embroidery, heat press and promotional products.
Roxanne Sapergia 403-601-4114 cell hitchnstitchdesign@gmail.com www.hitchnstitchdesign.net Find us on @hitchnstitchdesign
28 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
CHRISTMAS CHARCUTERIE Choose three or more cheeses to place in multiple locations on your board. Next, use two or more kinds of crackers to compliment the types of cheese you will be serving. Sliced baguette, Wheat Thins or Raincoast Crisps are all good options. Now it’s time to arrange the meats in a creative way around the board –try to avoid pulling slices out and placing them in rows straight out of their packaging. Ham, cervelat salami or pieces of beef jerky are always popular with cowboys. Then add condiments such as red pepper jelly to give the charcuterie a pop of colour (and flavor on top of cheeses) or cranberry sauce. Finally, top soft cheese wheels (like brie or camembert) with pomegranate seeds for a beautiful finish. Fill in any open spaces with sprigs of pine trees, peeled Christmas orange slices, candy canes and olives. Enjoy!
CHARCUTERIE BOARDS
The best way to let guests graze before Christmas dinner is served.
Builder of sweet iron bits and silver spurs
Christmas Gift Ideas From #360-412 Pine Creek Road • Heritage Pointe, AB • 403-968-5654 • 403-646-2222
LaGlace AB • domvaline@gmail.com • 780-831-4439
www.classicrodeoboutique.com November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 29
Alberta Boot Company
B U I LD I N G O N
I T D I O A N R T CAL G
Y MO RTA BOOT COMPAN E B L A S ’ Y AR
Y
I
nside Alberta Boot Company’s on-site factory, the iconic Calgary brand is carrying on a family tradition, now in its third generation. The scent of leather and the sound of machines used for more than 40 years provide a backdrop for the skilled boot makers working on the various stages of handcrafting western boots. This attention to detail and the care shown in constructing boots by hand contribute to this company’s longevity and fame in the Calgary area. “A lot of people, if they’re from Calgary or from the area and have been around for a long time, chances are maybe they had a pair of our boots or they know somebody
VES AHEAD WITH ITS UNWAVERING FOCUS ON QUALIT
Story & Photos by Piper Whelan
who has,” said Ben Gerwing, president of Alberta Boot Company. “So it’s pretty neat to be part of the fabric of the city.” Alberta Boot Company was established in 1978 by Gerwing’s grandfather, Clement Gerwing. The elder Gerwing grew up on a farm in Saskatchewan and led an interesting career path, from flying in the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War to starting his own fly-fishing and crop spraying companies. He moved his family to Calgary in the 1960s and bought into a wholesale footwear company that sold a wide range of shoes. “Over Stampede time every summer, there was always a large demand for cowboy boots,” said Gerwing. “Whether it was
30 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
Y CR AF T SM
ANSHIP .
Y
out of Mexico or eastern Canada or the States, he didn’t like the quality that he was able to bring in.” It was then that his grandfather, in his late 50s at this point, decided to launch his own line of boots at home in Calgary to provide a better-quality product to his customers. When he started this venture, he was told it wouldn’t succeed and that manufacturing in Canada would be difficult, but he knew he could make something from this opportunity. “Here we are 42 years later,” said Gerwing. “We’re still making boots the same way.” Alberta Boot Company is one of three Canadian western boot makers in regular manufacturing, and the only one in
Alberta. In addition to cowboy boots, they manufacture dress and casual boots and police boots. The brand is known for its custom creations, which make up about a quarter of the boots produced each year. “We can go anywhere from very minor detail to very wild, so we’ve made some pretty neat stuff over the years.” They generally produce approximately 3,000 to just less than 4,000 pairs of boots per year, depending on the type of boot and the year itself. “It sounds like quite a bit, but there’s… factories that’ll pump that out in a day. So in the grand scheme of things, it’s relatively small,” said Gerwing. More than 200 steps go into every pair of boots they make. A custom order will generally take around four to six weeks, Gerwing explained. “We could do it a little quicker than that, but we have to go through every single stage,” he said. “There’s certain things that we can’t rush.” Every pair of boots is made from full leather for durability and eye appeal, with humans at the helm of the machines used for cutting, sewing and lasting. Their customers range greatly in age and background, from those wanting a pair to wear during the Calgary Stampede, to those who live the western lifestyle every day. “We’ve dealt with multi-billionaires who have come through the doors over the years, and then people who are just working a couple jobs to support the family, but they want to do something to treat themselves for all the hard work they put in,” said Gerwing. “Young and old and anything in between, we can pretty much fit up anybody who comes in the store, and personally we think everybody deserves a good, well-made pair of boots.” You’ve also seen their work as part of the most recognizable Canadian symbols: the dress uniform of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Alberta Boot has been the exclusive manufacturer of the RCMP riding boot for all of Canada since 1999, a point of pride for the company. They’ve also made other police and military boots throughout the years. Another noteworthy project is creating boots for the Calgary Stampede Royalty each year, and the “tipi boot” for the First Nations Princess is particularly special to create. “[We] chat with the ladies and look back at the history from their family, different tipis in their family, and kind of incorporate it into a cowboy boot, which is really neat.”
Hydraulic cutting machines and specially sized knives are used to cut out the leather pieces required to make a specific pair of boots, and some pieces are cut by hand.
Shoe lasts determine the size, width, heel height and toe style of a boot, and while most of their lasts are now plastic, the company still uses some wooden lasts made in the 1940s and ‘50s.
Leather corking, spread between the boot’s insole and outsole, adds to the breathable nature of this all-leather boot. November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 31
Alberta Boot Company has manufactured the iconic Strathcona Boot for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police since 1999.
They’ve made boots for several movies and TV shows, for celebrities and dignitaries of all walks of life and even the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge upon their 2011 tour of Canada. The brand was also named the official western boot of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. The Calgary Stampede drives a huge percentage of their sales, and this demand has sustained the business for many years. “I’ll be the first to admit, if we didn’t have a Stampede, we probably wouldn’t be around,” said Gerwing. “We pretty much produce boots year-round to get ready for Stampede because we’ll sell more than half of our retail number in the weeks leading up to and during Stampede.” Having a connection to this Calgary institution and southern Alberta’s heritage is a big part of the brand’s identity, and their boots are sought after by locals and international visitors alike. With the COVID-19 pandemic leading to the cancellation of the 2020 Calgary Stampede, however, Gerwing noted that this has
been a tough year for the company, with sales down by more than 70 per cent. “This year has been very difficult,” he said. “If we didn’t have that RCMP contract right now, chances are we wouldn’t be around anymore.” Even in the face of a challenging year, Gerwing is proud of Alberta Boot Company’s reputation for creating boots that are built to last, using full leather for their construction. “As far as a product that is designed to last and go for a long time, there’s really nothing that compares to one of our boots in that respect,” he said. “That boot that you get from us, you can wear that for many, many years, and if you ever go through that outsole you can bring it back to us, we’ll do a full resoling on them,” he continued. “We’ve had customers who have bought their boots within the first year or two of us being around that still have that original pair – so boots that are over 40-years-old, they might have had one or two resoles on
32 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
them, and they’re still going strong.” Being able to find that kind of quality in your own community is one of the advantages of buying from local businesses, and Gerwing has seen this shift in perspective influence the shopping choices of the brand’s customers. “We’ve definitely seen a big push of people in last couple years more to the buy local, support local [movement],” he said, adding that this ties into the increased focus on supporting small, local businesses during the pandemic. “A lot of people have been looking at where all their products are coming from and thinking, ‘well, why not support something closer to home?’” This is even more meaningful as Gerwing takes the family company into the future. “I’m pretty happy that I’m third generation here. Moving a business from first to second generation, it’s a pretty high percentage of moving over, but from second to third it’s a massive drop-off. So it’s kind of neat that I can continue on the Alberta Boot legacy.”
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DON’T MISS THE JANUARY ISSUE OF Horsemanship • Culture • Style
Featuring Western Weddings
advertising@westernhorsereview.com or phone 403-250-1128 or 403-861-2609 November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 33
A Symbol of Hope In a year of upheaval, it’s sometimes helpful to cling to metaphors of certainty. Story & Photos by BAR XP PHOTO
While the terms “bison” and “buffalo” are often used interchangeably, they are, in-fact, distinctively different animals.
M
ost commonly known as, “the one that got away,” a White Buffalo, in any regard, is well-respected and rare. These magnificent creatures are indeed extraordinary and hold significant stature, across the land. Rooted in First Nations culture and revered by many, the legend of the White Buffalo bears relation to a local example. As 2020 draws to a close, it’s fitting to showcase a rare symbol of strength and hope, following a year of unconventional change. The legend of the White Buffalo is a common thread among many First Nations communities. While there is not a definitive version of the story, each boasts a common theme of unity and optimism. In summary, a young woman appeared to famished, native hunters, in search of food for their people. She told them to return home and announce her arrival. She later appeared, with a sacred pipe, and expressed the interconnected nature of the world. She taught rituals that focused on strength, gratitude and hope. Before leaving the fire, she rolled on the ground four times, changing colour with each revolution. Finally, she transformed into a white buffalo calf. As she departed, great herds of buffalo surrounded the camp, providing an abundance of food. The legend of the White Buffalo was born.
White Buffalo, extremely rare, are often confused with their close counterparts. In fact, the National Bison Association notes that only 1 in every 10 million bison born are truly white. In addition, while the terms “bison” and “buffalo” are often used interchangeably, they are, in-fact, distinctively different animals. It’s speculated that the mixup began with early European explorers. Some believe that bison hides resembled “buff coats,” worn by military personnel, thus inspiring the namesake. Both animals belong to the bovidae family but are not closely related. Buffalo (Cape Buffalo and Water Buffalo) are native to Africa, while Bison are native to North America and Europe. The two animals bear distinct characteristics and are easily differentiated. Bison have large humps at their shoulders and have much bigger heads than buffalo. They also have thick coats and full beards. Bison horns are typically much smaller than buffalo. They curve upward, directly from the side of the animal’s skull. Buffalo, on the other hand, have a much slicker coat and a smaller head. Their horns form a wide, helmetlike plate, across the top of their skull. Buffalo horns basically resemble a handle bar moustache, in shape. A common feature that the two share is that they do not “moo.” Both animals grunt, snort and bellow to convey their mood.
November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 35
A true, White Bison has a white coat with dark skin and dark eyes. While most bison change colour as they age, true White Bison are born fairly white and only have dark features. Albino herd members are the most common oversight when identifying them. These cases, with pink eyes and skin, remain unpigmented their entire lives. Another common oversight is a leucistic animal. These too have a white coat but have blue eyes. A final misconception are Beefalo. These commonly mistaken replicas of “White Buffalo,” attribute their lighter appearance to their cattle ancestry. Our local landscape is blessed with a pristine example of
36 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
a true White Bison. A six-year-old bull owned by western icon, John Scott, stems from story himself. Born on Scott’s ranch, in Longview, AB, the un-named prodigy, arrived after great anticipation. His sire, Teton, a pricey specimen from North Dakota, migrated to Canada and originally settled on the Rafter 6 Ranch. His owner, at the time, fell on misfortune and asked Scott to care for the prized possession. Scott integrated the magnificent, white bull with his solid brown herd and waited for nature to take its course. Initially, the distinct bull was run-off by dominant herd sires. After two years and herd revision, the bull successfully covered some of Scott’s brown bison females.
The rest is history.
Several white, bison calves now roam Scott’s ranch, nestled in the foothills. Teton’s son, Scott’s featured “White Buffalo” – who is now a herd sire himself – is a sight to see. He extends his father’s legacy with poise and distinct presence. Amidst the stunning herd of brown bison, he and a few of his rare progeny send a message of patience, unity, and hope. Looking back, 2020 has been a year filled with challenge. More importantly, 2020 has been a year of realization. With hope, unity and strength, we can accomplish great things. Like a rare bison, we are reminded to revere messages of hope and recount the blessings that have been bestowed upon us. All too often, we overlook the little things that truly are the most important. Regardless of situation, together, we can press forward and support each other with appreciation of family, friends and good-fortune.
Did you know… Bison are a very lean and cholesterol friendly source of protein. They’re a very hardy species who thrive in cold climates and have very little body fat. Their incredible metabolism allows them to conserve energy in even the most-harsh conditions. In fact, they consume a fraction of feed in comparison to their beef counterparts. In an intense storm they will actually hunker down with their robust heads facing the wind! Unlike beef and other livestock, they don’t require bedding and do best with minimal interaction while calving.
Bison in Film
Known for his mastery in film, John Scott recounted a unique experience where his bison took the role. While the white bison have yet to make film debut, their herd mates, have taken part in several productions. One in particular left a mark. When recreating an accident scene, that took place in Yellowstone National Park, Scott’s bulls displayed how intense bison can be. A trio of brown bulls were used to replicate the goring of a photographer, who got too close. For the movie Fear Factor, a dummy was dropped into a pen of three bulls to recreate the accident. Scott noted that in a matter of two seconds the most-feisty of the bulls went to town. He hooked with his left. Hooked with his right and then kicked. The recreation was intense and eye-opening. The finale of the film showcased the main-character petting a much more-gentle bison, overcoming his fear!
November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 37
Wildrose Imagery
2020 SHOW COVERAGE
38
Highlights from sport associations and how they a lost show season. WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/Decemberregained 2020
REGAINING THE LOSS OF A SEASON Their last show of the season was also the first, in what was the craziest year in the history of the Northern Alberta Reined Cow Horse Club. By Jessica Cline • Photos by Wildwood Imagery
Heza Duallin For Cash, owned by 7P Ranch, and sired by Heza Diamond Spark, rode by Dale Clearwater garnered the Stallion Incentive cheque.
R
ewind to December 2019. The Northern Alberta Reined Cow Horse Club (NARCHC) ran their annual stallion auction to raise money for much needed club functions such as youth clinics, advertising, and member givebacks, as well as pumping funds back into their fledgling Stallion Incentive Payout. The board worked hard to present 26 stallions who offered something for everyone. There were a diverse mix of disciplines from rope horse sires, to upper crust cow horse and cutting stallions, and those located
in both Canada and the United States. The aim was to offer a sire to everyone so as to grow the support for the club at all levels. The auction had been steadily gaining steam since its inception in 2015, and married the concepts of club growth and breeder incentive. It had grown to be the largest stallion incentive in Canada, reaching every corner of the club, as well as giving back to the stallion owner and the highest money earning offspring. The first ever Stallion Incentive cheque was presented at this year’s event to Rider Dale Clearwater of Hanley, SK,
who piloted Heza Duallin For Cash, owned by 7P Ranch, and sired by Heza Diamond Spark. This gritty show horse ‘earned money each time he was showed, and just kept getting better and better‘ according to Clearwater. He was sent to the Saskatchewan trainer in August of his two-year-old year, after being started by Owner Jesse Thompson. The entry received $1,227 to Clearwater and a custom Robin Hay Snaffle, while 7P Ranch garnered $732 for the Stallion owner portion. Fast forward to March 2020. The very successful stallion auction had recently
November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 39
Pure Latigo and Jonathan Morisson.
Strong Enuf and Shayne Smith
Ima Smokums Lena and Shelly Holt. 40 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
closed and the club was ready for a record-setting year. However, in line with the rest of the world at the time – everything ground to a stop. The entire year was up in the air. According to NARCHC President Jocelyn Williams and longtime board member Dustin Grams, the largest obstacle was the fact that “you could not plan,” and anybody who has ever put any type of equine event on knows that proper preparation is key to success. August 2020, five months into lock-down and summer riding is at its peak. Amid much discussion among the board, it was decided to attempt to offer a small schooling opportunity to the members. With proper measures in place, the event went off with excellent support. Now the board was in search of a secretary, as life changes seemed to be a challenge for anyone looking to fill the vital role in the organization. The search for secretary continued. Equine functions were slowly starting to occur, and tentative plans were put in place to host a year-end show in October – however what this would look like remained unknown. Then in early September 2020, the yearend show gained National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) approval. Originally, contact was made to the NRCHA in January 2020 to investigate the possibility of the year-end show gaining the governing association’s approval. This option was explored to offer club members the opportunity to grow from the grassroots level and dip their toe in the larger pool of NRCHA classes, while maintaining the familiar atmosphere the NARCHC is known for. At the time, their proposal was rejected as the year-end show dates overlapped with the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity in Fort Worth, TX, and it is written in stone that there are to be no approved shows to be held on these dates. Further discussions took place once the yearend show was confirmed in late summer, and approval by the NRCHA was granted. Now, however, came the heavy lifting, as sponsorship acquisition and a secretary with NRCHA capabilities were still needed – and it was only five weeks until the first horse was slated to step in the pen. There were classes that needed discussion, rules that needed clarification, health and safety measures to adhere to, and all those little details needed to make a great experience for competitors. If one word could describe this club, it would be “welcoming.” In doing so, the club has built itself a reputation of inclusion. This also meant members and club supporters were willing to give back and give they did. In those five week, $22,000 was raised, along with a mountain of prizes. Many new sponsors also stepped up, making the show a monumental success in such uncertain and economically difficult times. In late September 2020 classes were confirmed and the entry package was released with three
weeks until start time. With the deadline looming, entries started pouring in and now the lategame organizational nightmare of running any show ensued. Decreasing physical contact also meant increasing the pre-event paperwork. Volunteers needed coordination and many newcomers needed questions answered. The location of the event could not have been better. The Ponoka Ag Equine Center caters to every need either host or competitor. The show was held October 15 -18 and featured futurity, derby, and horse show classes and a showcase Saturday night. SPECTACULAR SPECTACULARS Horse show classes included spectacular classes which were sponsored by the stallion, Smokums Prize. As a twist, the board offered competitors the option to use their highest scores as use in winning tabulations. A new face emerged victorious in the Open Bridle Spectacular – Strong Enuf, a stallion owned by Keston Merrill of Bar Double M Angus in Hillspring, AB and his rider Shayne Smith were the champions. “I picked the stallion up approximately six weeks prior to the show, and he had only been showed once previously in his career,” said Smith. However the owners wanted to see how he would perform. Strong Enuf is NRCHA World Show Qualified, and will stand to the public in 2021. Smith, along with wife Tressie, brought a number of customers thanks to the laid-back atmosphere of the show. The Non-Pro Bridle spectacular was won by Coasting the Stars and Farrah MacArthur to the win. The horse also known as “James” performed double duty with son Waylon aboard in the Youth Rein/Box. Coasting the Stars is a family affair. According to both riders, he is easy to show, and is a big stopper. He steps up and carries Farrah to monster fence runs, then can throttle back and keep Waylon safe and in the correct position. The big palomino is worth his weight in gold. The family notes this show as one of their favorites throughout the year. The hotly contested Novice Non-Pro Bridle Spectacular was won by Jonathan Morrison and his 17-year-old gelding, Pure Latigo. “Latigo” is described as laid back, and loves living inside a stall, but is a war horse in the arena. The Morrison family are NARCHC Year-End newcomers as they are typically finishing up combining at this time of year, however a smooth, early harvest meant they could make the drive from High River, AB. The whole family showed this year, with mom Robyn showing in multiple classes, and daughter Maysa in the Future Stars. Deb Simpson’s smiling face was top of the leader board in the Non-Pro Rein/Box Spectacular. Her awesome gelding Devil in the Deep Blu, or “Token,” started their journey together in Arizona in April, when Simpson was on the hunt for another cow horse. This was her first young
Little Bellanita and Rick Wiebe.
Bagged the Dually and April Milne. November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 41
Time for a Pepto Mint and Dale Clearwater.
Strong Enuf and Shayne Smith.
Just Enough Shine and Lisa Allen. 42 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
cow horse, so she says ‘we are both still learning’. After a mistake in the Derby, they decided to enter the Spectacular, which proved to be a wise decision. She rode the wave of ups and downs, garnering a zero in the reining and turning around and scoring a personal best in the cutting over the course of the show. The $1000 Limit Rein/Box Spectacular was won by Maria Murphy of Wetaskiwin, AB, on her “pride and joy” Peptos Peppermint, a 12-yearold gelding more famously known for being son, John’s, solid Non-Pro mount. The family has owned him since his yearling year, and campaigned him to his Supreme Reined Cow Horse Award, however now his duties include trail riding, and safely carrying the grandchildren. Maria has showed for two years at the year-end show, and appreciates the work done by the board to host such a wonderful and diverse show. Winner of the Non-Pro Two Rein Spectacular was a long-time club member Ian Hryhirchuk of Irma, AB, on his solid daughter of sponsor Smokums Prize, Talkin Prize Money. This horse has shown in each phase of her career at the NARCHC Futurity & Derby show. Hyrhirchuk is a part owner of Smokums Prize, and has multiple offspring coming up by this talented sire in the next few years. The Open Two Rein Spectacular was won by the chestnut powerhouse Peppers Pepto Lena, piloted by Geoff Hoar, Innisfail, AB, for owner Shawna Husted. This solid daughter of One Time Pepto has LTE approaching $25,000, and is simple and easy to show according to Hoar. He notes the growth of the sport at this show, which is evident with 23 youth among the various classes, and many new faces throughout. He also commented on the friendly, laid back atmosphere which made his youth customers feel less intimidated to give showing a try, and by all accounts, had fun doing it. Speaking of youth, one of the largest observations were the sheer number of youth competitors at this show. Tyne Alliban of Carstairs, AB, emerged victorious in the Youth 13 & Under Working Cow Horse on her 14-year-old mare “Diva.” This was her second time going down the fence on cattle, and the brave girl said it was ‘really fun’, as she has mainly worked buffalo in the past, and her short pen made practicing fence runs difficult. This handy rider also won the Youth Cutting on Wild Haired Babe, her birthday present from two years ago. Alliban notes she loves the facility, and has also showed jumper ponies here in the past. The four-year NARCHC veteran says, “This club is great for kids who haven’t showed a bunch and there are classes for every level.” In response to the number of grassroots riders, the board decided to offer a $1000 Non-Pro Cow Horse Spectacular. This class was won by Paint All-Around crossover April Milne of Sherwood Park, AB. Milne piloted her five-year-old mare Bagged A Dually, a stout daughter of Dually Cat,
and her first cow horse, to the win. Cow sense is this smart mare’s biggest asset, but they have ridden the rollercoaster typical of young horses, with moments of brilliance followed by events where things quickly fell apart. The pair started in the entry classes last year, and are having fun going down the fence.
LIMITED AGE EVENTS
The trip from Sunrise Ranch, Outlook, Sk, to Ponoka proved fruitful for Rick and Becky Wiebe. Rick swept the Open Futurity divisions on the filly Little Bellanita, bred and raised by Red Spring Ranch of Okla, SK, and took home a tidy $3,365. The Wiebe’s purchased her as a later two-year-old, and were a little unsure she wanted to be a cow horse in the beginning. Things were starting to come together for the filly, but since all horse events were shut down early in the season, there were no opportunities to school and test her out. “That fact can weigh on the mental aspect of being prepared,” says Wiebe. “But the most valuable lesson learned was to trust the work already done and not overthink things.She gets really deep in the ground, and is very consistent, making her fun to show,” he says. He is quick to thank his wife Becky for being his biggest support, and has the reputation of being the best turnback help around. Speaking of wives, Dale Clearwater also credits his wife Terri as true owner of the Open Derby winner Time For A Peptomint. The horse is described as a ‘Steady Eddy’ who walks in and is the same horse time after time. “Horses with the ability to mark big, and are naturally big stoppers like this one are fun, and make my job easy” quotes Clearwater. Limited open derby winner was Danielle Rosia’s horse Reminics Guns N Roses, guided by Clint Swales. They bested the field of nine limited open horses to an $1,800 payday. On the Non-Pro side, the Futurity win went to long time competitor Clayton Hines of Drayton Valley, AB, on Jewels Are Heavenly. This duo walked away with $2,000 for the win. The Limited Futurity went to Jennifer Soltys of Marwayne, Ab, riding Madame Justice Pepto. Their win was accompanied by a paycheck totalling $1,150. The Non-Pro Derby was won by the four-year old gelding Twist My Arm, for owner/operator Jim Dobler of Delburne, AB. This is a multigenerational product of their breeding program for Thunderstruck Ranch, combining ‘new’ sire Smokums Prize genetics with their hard-working Appaloosa mare, In The Nic of Sign. The product has a big motor when needed, but his laid-back personality has made him easy to show. Being a huge stopper, Dobler says his strongest event is the reining, as everything is easy for this horse to do. Jim loves the undercurrent of this show, noting it has the warm and welcoming atmosphere of cow horse in Canada of bygone days.
Jim Dobler and Twist My Arm
November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 43
The Non-Pro Limited Derby winner was the four-year-old mare Ima Smokums Lena, also sired by Smokums Prize and out of Ima Jessalena. Shelly Holt, the rider of this talented mare, says she is very quiet and consistent, and is the fourth offspring of Ima Jessalena to hit the showpen. Holt was instrumental in developing the NARCHC Limited Age Event, which has seen rapid growth and currently enjoyed 45 entries. She appreciates the growth the event has seen, and notes its niche appeal. She understands the difficulty in balancing limited aged events with grassroots classes. – a feat which rarely happens successfully.
HORSE SHOW CLASSES
Lisa Allen, of High River, AB, veteran boxer but fence newbie, ventured out for her first time on her powerhouse CD Olena gelding Just Enough Shine. This show was her first, and she was excited to win the $500 Limit Cow Horse class.
Mirroring this was Lin Irvine in the $500 Limit Rein/Box on her mare Trick E Niki. The 64-year-old appreciated the fact there was a place for everyone, and mentioned she was thankful for the live feed so her family could watch from the comfort and safety of home. Ranch Hand Class winner Victoria Johnson of Sundre, AB, was riding for Bar TT Cowhorses and won riding their homebred, Graceland Voodoo. She appreciated the constructive criticism and how kind everyone was to a new face. The year-end show went off with rave reviews for all involved. Health and safety were balanced with great rides and good cattle, a fantastic facility and fun atmosphere, despite the cancellation of all social events. The exuberance that accompanies newcomers is refreshing to old faces, and the board does an excellent job of listening to the concerns of participants to make this horse show a highlight of the year.
44 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
FUN FACTS OF THE NARCHC YEAR-END SHOW • Over 226 horse show class entries. • 45 Limited Age Event entries. • Champion and Reserve prizes were sponsored for all horse show classes. • 437 head of cattle were used. • $22,477 will be paid out in the Stallion Incentive over the next five years. • Over 23 youth entrants.
Congratulations to the 2020
RAPP winners! REINING ALBERTA PERFORMANCE PROGRAM “RAPP”
RAPP is a local breeding program designed to enhance the existing Reining Alberta Sire Incentive Program. The goal is to increase participation and purses. The program was expanded to allow any foal to be nominated to the program. Foals sired by enrolled stallions will be eligible for nomination into the program at significantly reduced rates. The goal is to continue to promote the local stallions and have a program that will also benefit local breeders who choose to breed to other stallions.
3 yr Old Futurity - L4 Open Champion GUNNER IN THE NITE Exhibited by Austin Seelhof • Owned by Outrider Ranch
3 yr Old Futurity - L1 Open Champion LIL LADY SNIPER Owned & Shown by Renee Zakaluzny
3 yr Old Futurity - L4 Non Pro Champion SHOWIN MY SHINE Owned & Shown by Shonda Day
4 Yr old Derby - L4 Open Champion SNIP OF JAC Exhibited by Jesse Beckley • Owned by Norma Siebert
4 Yr old Derby - L1 Open Champion TINKERS NORTHERN GAL Exhibited by Deb Duce • Owned by Southline Quarter Horses
4 Yr old Derby - L4 Non Pro Champion LIL GRAFFITI GUN Owned & Shown by Wendy Williams
5/6/7 Yr old Derby - L4 Open Champion ONE GUN REMINGTON Exhibited by Shawna Sapergia • Owned by Phil Heidebrecht
5/6/7 Yr old Derby - L1 Open Champion XTRA RUFF WIMPY Owned & Shown by Christa Turel
5/6/7 Yr old Derby - L4 Non Pro Champion BB GUNNA TRASH TALK Exhibited by Colton Wong • Owned by Julie Olenyk-Wong
You must be a current Reining Alberta Member to nominate your foal. Nomination forms are available at www.reiningalberta.net and are due by November 30, 2020
RAPP 2020 Sires: ALLTHATSHINES IS JOE
DUNITSMART THISTIME
BERRY FINNOMENAL
EINSTEINS CASHNCHEX
CHICS IN THE MALE
HESA HOT GUNNER
Shauna Getz/Whitby Farms Nicole Klassen
CUSTOM SMART SPOOK Robert/Lois Brickley
SMOKIN AMMO
S. Gail & Robert Gatto - Jr. Stallion
Phil & Barb Heidebrecht BarHeide Invst. Trueman Farms (Tammy Stewart)
MAJOR DURANGO
Ronja Schippers
Hollasch Quarter Horses
CRUSIN WHIZ
SHINEY GOLDEN GUN
Brian Knutson/Bar K2 Ranch
Lynne Hoff
COLONEL REMI
LOKOTA CHIC
Darrell Hanson
MAMBOS WHIZ
Brian & Vicki Braun Foothills Ranch
SPECIAL MADE WHISKEY
Ken & Peggy Johnson
Gord Robinson (Big Rock Arena)
Karlie McKeand
Lane & Sandra Giesbrecht
Brian & Giselle Aebly
Ranae Widney/Cassandra Day
S. Gail & Robert Gatto
JOS NEXT TOP GEM
JU JUZZ GUNSLINGER
MR BAY ROOSTER
SHINERS BLACK CAT
SPOOKS BIG BANG SUGAR CAT MAN CD Quarter Horses
LIL GUN (COLONELS LIL GUN)
SHINERS GOT SWAGGER
TEXAS TINSELTOWN
LIL JOE CASH
SHINERS LENA DUST
WIMPYS FREE HUGS
Seelhof Perf. Horses
Gaylene Sawchuk - agent
Sandy Corriveau
Ken & Peggy Johnson
Locke & Deb Duce
Caflisch Quarter Horses
Enrollment Fees: Stallion fee $500/stallion/year • Deadline for stallion nomination is May 15, 2021 After May 15, 2021 late fees apply: Stallion enrolment fee $750/yr
Reining Alberta www.reiningalberta.net
KEEP CALM & RIDE ON Reining Alberta proved that with a dedicated team of supporters and a very willing membership, anything was possible in 2020. By Kathie MacKenzie • Tru Equine Photography
Jade Whitmarsh rode North Sail Solitaire to win both the Level 4 and Level 1 Non-Pro 4/5/6/7-Year-Old Derby.
I
t is no secret that 2020 hasn’t turned out the way any of us had planned. Fortunately, a lot of good things did manage to take place in the world of Reining Alberta. Pre-Covid, Reining Alberta was actively planning a busy schedule with three Classic Shows and branch events around the province. Despite the lockdown and health restrictions, Reining Alberta kept
46 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
in contact with its members and provided updates as they came available. By the end of April, it was confirmed that most arenas, including Westerner Park in Red Deer, AB, were not going to be available to host our events. We made the difficult decision to cancel the Spring and Summer Classic shows but kept our hopes high and planning underway for the Fall Classic and Western Canada Affiliate Regional
Championships (WCARCs). In June, we started a Virtual Summer Series. The goal was to keep our members riding and interacting with their horses during the challenging days of the pandemic. Reining and Ranch Riding classes were offered for a minimal fee with prize money going back to the winners. Although the number of entries received was limited, the feedback from those who took part was excellent.
Renee Zakaluzny and Lil Lady Sniper won the Level 1 Three-Year-Old Futurity. They also received the special memorial buckle named after George Lauder.
At the end of June, Reining Alberta had secured the opportunity to host a schooling show at the end of July. We were completely grateful regardless of the restrictions to have a show. The turnout was fantastic and the feedback from everyone there was positive and full of gratitude. Everyone was happy to be at a show. With a lot of patience and perseverance, we were able to go ahead with the 2020 Fall Classic & WCRACs. This show was not like other Fall Classic shows – it was four shows in one. We held the derbies and futurity from all three Classic shows, as well as the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Affiliate Championships for western Canada. With over 250 stalls booked, 194 horses from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Alberta showed over the four days. Highlights included 110 entries in the Ladies & Gents class with
Shayla Malmberg riding her mom’s gelding Megas Revolution to win over $400 on the first day of the show. Not bad for a schooling run! The Non-Pros came out with high scores early in the show with BC’s Deanna Beckley on Whos Wicked Good scoring a 75 for the win and Manitoba’s Kyle Ryan scored a 73.5 on Maysons Little Spark for second place in the NRHA Non-Pro class on the Thursday night. The aged events are always the highlight of the show and once again we were not disappointed. Austin Seelhof (Cochrane, AB) with Marie Whitmarsh’s stallion North Sail Solitaire scored a 151 in the NRHA Level 4 Open 4/5/6/-Year-Old Derby on the Friday afternoon. Christa Turel (Olds,AB) showed her stallion Xtra Ruff Wimpy and took the win with a 143 in the NRHA Level 1 Open 4/5/6/7-Year-Old Derby. The Four-Year-Old Open Maiden Derby
(a class for horses with limited showing as a three- year-old), was won by Jaime Fischer (Chilliwack, BC) on Debra Phelon’s Shes a Royal Legend scoring a 147.50 to take home a custom buckle sponsored by George and Gail Lauder. Jade Whitmarsh (Cochrane, AB) also rode her mother’s stallion, North Sail Solitaire and had a great run scoring a 146 to sweep both the Level 4 and Level 1 Non Pro 4/5/6/7-Year-Old Derby. Meaghan Myers (Lloydminster, AB) and Smoking Mistress won the FourYear-Old Non-Pro Maiden Derby Buckle with a 138. The Non-Pro Maiden buckle was sponsored by Wendy Nelson Performance Horses. This year’s futurity once again highlighted great horses and great riders. Susan Strelioff (Calgary, AB) on her young stallion Dutyful won the Non-Pro Futurity with a 140.50 on the Friday afternoon. On Saturday, Austin Seelhof
November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 47
took three of the top four placings in the Level 4 Open Futurity. He rode Outrider Ranch’s stallion Gunner In the Nite (by Gunners Special Nite) for a first place win with a 146.5. Hot on his tail, was Jesse Beckley of Cranbrook, BC, on his own stallion Mizzen Voodoo (by Shiners Voodoo Dr) with a 144.50. The Level 1 Three-Year-Old Futurity was won by Renee Zakaluzny of Swift Current, SK, on her young mare, Lil Lady Sniper (by Smokin Ammo). This was an extra special win for Renee – as the owner of the winning horse in this class, she received a special memorial buckle named after George Lauder, long time member of Reining Alberta. George was a well respected owner and breeder of top quality reining horses and he loved the three-year old futurity. Zakaluzny had tears in her eyes when receiving the buckle and said it was an honour to have this keepsake named after George. Once again, we have a great support system that made 2020 the success it was, despite the challenges we couldn’t control. Without our amazing sponsors, our volunteers, our stallion owners, our train-
ers, our exhibitors, the entire membership, the Board of Directors and our staff, none of our events would have come to light in 2020. From the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU!
Planning for 2021 is underway and things will likely be different from how they were just a year ago, but what we will take away from 2020 is that “where there’s a will, there’s a way!”
continued from page 58
had dissociated from the whole nightmare. To Billy, he was asking permission to unload after a great day together, to go have a drink and a roll, then tuck into his supper. The deadly switch had clicked back to neutral. This was my moment of reckoning. On my back in the gravel, gulping down air and relief and the sour taste of shame, Billy and I had reached the end of our trail. I have long wondered how this generous, sparkling, sunlit force of life could be crossed with such shadow. Had it always been in him? Was it how he was raised? What he’d endured, whether abuse or injury? A tumour or some imbalance in his brain? None of it mattered, once I saw that each of these questions lay outside me. None of the answers were mine. Whenever I hear of a woman who finds herself, somehow, mired down in a bad relationship, I remember Billy. I think of how exciting he was, the highs he gave me on those good days. The joy that came from being with him, instead of wishing that I wasn’t still looking. Still alone. I think of the unholy terror that eventually forced me to see him for what he was. I have learned that always, horsemanship mirrors real life.
I have ridden that horse. I have trusted that man. 48 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
Lee McLean is best known for the storytelling on her Facebook page, Keystone Equine, and for her good ponies. One of eight women to race, sidesaddle, at the Calgary Stampede, Lee is resolved to write for, teach and represent other ordinary riders… the people who ride despite illness, injury, fear and changed plans! Her first book, HORSE WOMAN: Notes on Living Well & Riding Better, was just published and is available on Amazon. Lee lives with her husband, Mike, in the rolling hills of southwestern Alberta.
November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 49
KICKING THE DUST UP Highlights from the 2020 National Team Cattle Penning Finals. Story by Suzanne Hale • Photos by Lorie Inglis
Twin brothers Justin and Graham Armstrong, along with brother Russell, win the Open Shoot Out for the second year in a row.
T
he 24th annual National Team Penning Finals, sponsored by Cam Clark Ford took place the weekend of October 10-13 thanks to a standout team of organizers, volunteers and contestants. In a typical year, participants have 12 months to fine-tune details, but 2020 was anything but. Once given the green light to proceed, organizers were left with a matter of weeks to bring the plan together. Drew Parker, a director with the Canadian 6 oversaw the COVID-19 guidelines together with Ray Antony, Chairman of the National Finals committee and representatives from the Calgary Stampede, Alberta Health
Services, and participants with medical backgrounds. A great deal of planning went into putting Covid protocols in place, including the implementation of a stand-by volunteer medical team, courier services to reduce the need to depart the grounds, disinfecting services and participant screening. While this year’s events resulted in reduced participant numbers and less prize monies, Parker notes, “The overall operation of the show was not affected. Compliance by all was excellent.” Despite the lack of cross-border participants, the 2020 event offered high-level challenges and a respectable payout of approximately $325,000 which along
50 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
with entries, was down about 25% from 2019, mainly due to Covid-related reasons. For the second year, and of even higher importance when many couldn’t watch in person, a live stream of the event was offered via Sort Arena. “I’m expecting the stream to be a permanent fixture,” Parker says.
OPEN SHOOT-OUT
For the second year in a row, the BCbased Armstrong family of Russell and twin brothers Justin and Graham dominated the Open Shoot Out with a 93.67 time, which Russell notes was at least partly due to good fortune. “Every time you win, lots of luck is involved,” Russell
says, adding that there was undoubtedly a different feel to this year’s Nationals in the wake of Covid. “No one was competing, so there weren’t many rating changes. Teams were similar to last year – payouts were less, but still very good. This show is still top of the line.” The downtime this year turned out to be a blessing for a family that’s perpetually on the move. “I love penning more than anything - I’d never have imagined I’d take a year off, but it was actually nice to take a breath.” Although the unexpected break was welcome, the Armstrong crew has no intention of stepping away from the sport any time soon. “You get a win, it hooks you – you want more!” The reserve winning team of Sue Norquay, Ryan Conan and Nicole Sigouin posted a 101.52 time. Ken and Karen Mix of K&K Livestock, the Nationals show’s longest-serving sponsors, provided reserve champion winter blankets to all Reserve winners.
Four Days of action at the Nutrien Western Event Centre, Calgary, AB.
14 CLASS
Father and son Ben and Tom Thorlakson won with Open Shoot Out winner Russell Armstrong, finishing in 115.77. The Thorlakson-Armstrong history dates back to 2005, when the Thorlaksons stopped by the Armstrong ranch to discuss some business. The Armstrong boys happened to be in the middle of a penning-practice session and invited the Thorlaksons to join. “We’ve been competing together across North America ever since,” says Tom. “This win was very special as it was with my father, and was my first win as a new dad to our perfect baby girl Sara Jane,” Tom says, adding that he had his wife Micaela brought Sara Jane down after their win to join the photo. “We had some lucky draws – cattle on the outside of the herd, and cooperative cattle that made it easier for us to have quick runs,” he says. “I strongly believe luck plays a key role in success, but if you’re not keeping your skills sharp, you’ll mess up some of the gifts the cattle will give you.” Tom competed on Peanut, one of his all-time favorites, while Russell rode his AQHA gelding Carl, who is highly regarded among Canadian penning competitors. Ben rode a mare he bought from Tom. “She works perfect for him,” Tom says. Reserve winning team of Ryan Conan, Danielle Gamache and Sue Norquay were on the heels of the winners with a 118.01 total time.
Tom and Ben Thorlakson, along with Russell Armstrong, were the 14 Class winners.
Tanner Ruby, Kiara Jones and Brooklyn Ruby were the 8 Shoot Out winners.
8 SHOOT-OUT
Kiara Jones, Tanner Ruby and sister Brooklyn Ruby put together a 97.18 time for top honors in the 8 Shoot Out, while Rick Bond, Trina Dunn and Rene O’Rourke tallied 112.24, a scant 0.7 seconds ahead of
Tanner Ruby, Kiara Jones and Brooklyn Ruby were the 8 Shoot Out winners. November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 51
the third place team for the reserve title. “We had good cow luck – they were either sitting on the sides or up front,” says Dunn, who won on her horse Lotta. “Stole her from my husband! She’s consistent and does her job every time – as long as I didn’t make mental errors then all you ask for is easy numbers to spot.” For Dunn’s part, the biggest Covid-related challenge was remembering masks. “If you were on foot, you needed a mask. I have two young children and their masks would go missing!” she says. Dunn noted that following Covid, she didn’t feel as prepared, but that also meant horses were healthy and fresh.
10 CLASS Kim Bayrack, Lissa Quinlan and Mac Wade win the 10 Class.
132.10 seconds meant a 10 Class win for Kim Bayrack, Lissa Quinlan and Mac Wade, riding together for the first time at Nationals. In spite of a hitch during the second go when they couldn’t find the third rider, the other two executed a solid run, securing 10th spot. Quinlan thanks her horse. “I got this beautiful mare this spring – she never disappointed me! Nationals were amazing. Everyone was careful to distance, and clean often.” Reserve winners, the Gamache family of Len, Danielle and Spencer did their last name proud with a time of 137.27.
7 CLASS
Darquise Beauchesne, Heather Stairs and Kirsten Scott were the 7 Class winners.
Top 7 Class honors resided with Kirsten Scott, Darquise Beauchesne and Heather Stairs, with a 128.75 time. Reserve winners Brenda Gilbert, Brittany Fraser and Rosie Zacharias finished in 135.19. Zacharias credits her ride. “I’ve had my mare Brumby for five years. She gives her whole heart.” Gilbert adds, “Spending a day on the back of your horse is a good day, but any time you can make it to the pay window is great!” Gilbert also notes luck was on the team’s side. “With 30 head of cattle, three horses and three riders – things can go well, or they can go really awful. This time, the cattle were positioned just right.” Commenting on Covid’s effect on Nationals, Gilbert says, “The biggest impact was on the spectators and on family who couldn’t attend.” Gilbert’s family, including an uncle who was in the hospital, took advantage of the streamed event. “They hollered at the TV! It was amazing to ride at this level during Covid. It’s always a spectacular show, but with the late notice and extra planning the organizers had to do – even more so.” Zacharias adds, “A huge thank you to everyone!”
5 CLASS Emily Lomas, Justin Tetrault and George De Jonge were the champions of the 5 Class. 52 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2019
5 Class winners Emily Lomas, Justin Tetrault and George De Jonge found success with a 173.89 total time, while De Jonge and
Tetrault also took reserve honors along with Tammy Harmatuik with a total of 184.90. De Jonge says all the runs were smooth. “The cattle were great, they’re always fresh. I’ve had my horse for six years and I may not be the best rider, I just hang on and go – but my horse knows what to do.” With Nationals being the first major equine event at the Stampede grounds following Covid, De Jonge expresses appreciation for the organizers. “I don’t know how they pulled it off,” says De Jonge. His Nationals history goes back many years, with a notable 7 Class win in 2011 with his daughter and granddaughter. “I’m just very thankful at my age to be taking part. We obeyed all the rules – keeping our distance, wearing masks – but once you’re sitting on your horse, you just go.”
JUNIOR YOUTH AND SENIOR YOUTH CLASS
Austin Bloomfield, Heath Davis and Leah Rycroft were the champions of the Senior Youth Class.
Darryl and Randy Bruce teamed up with Clay Hunter, finishing in 159.01 in the Junior Youth Class with reserve winners, Cash Goodbun and Shaylene and Chase Hunter posting a 170.43 score. Austin Bloomfield, Heath Davis and Leah Rycroft executed in 135.08 to take home a win in the Senior Youth Class, while reserve winners Chelsey Funk, Teagan Walker and Denise Greanya came in with a time of 137.16.
CENTURY AND A HALF CLASS
The Century and a Half Class winning team each took home a Tom Milne Memorial buckle with their time of 67.03. “Our cows were in decent positions to make quick picks,” says Laurel Harrison, who won with Perry Kelemen and Kevin Mcgillicky. Despite a season that didn’t allow for as much practice as usual, the team was pleased with the outcome. “We didn’t get any doubles or outside peelers, but our first run went smooth; we advanced to the final 10 in third place. Our winning run went even better – we had great chemistry and communication,” Harrison notes. “I’m honored to be on the winning team receiving the Tom Milne Memorial buckle.” Miles Wright, Heather Stairs and George De Jonge found reserve success with a total time of 69.96. Drew Parker rounds up the sentiments of many who were a part of the event. “I was humbled by how many of the participants came by the office, the barns, the trailers, to say thank you. This event meant a lot, to a lot of people who thought we would never pull it off. It was important for the health of anyone who participates at anything on the back of a horse.”
Darryl and Randy Bruce rode up with Clay Hunter to win the Junior Youth Class.
Kevin Mcgillicky, Laurel Harrison and Perry Kelemen were the Century and a Half Class winners. November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 53
Chuckwagon Racing
Dina Sutherland
THE WESTERN CANADIAN SPECIAL
The future of chuckwagon racing is looking a lot different than it has in past years and it has many drivers wondering what the horizon looks like for them.
D
uring a regular summer across western Canada, over 80 drivers and their families from three different chuckwagon associations would be setting up camp at the various races across Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Colombia. This summer was different as COVID-19 ultimately caused the Western Chuckwagon Association (WCA), the Canadian Chuckwagon Association (CPCA), and the World Professional Chuckwagon Association (WPCA) to cancel their 2020 seasons. This meant the loss of
Story by Kass Patterson revenue drivers depend on, sponsorship and winnings, and the loss of quality time with their family and horses. Drivers like Jordie Fike (Blackie, AB) had to find alternate work during the summer months to help support their families and feed their horses through the winter. “When you are gone working, you don’t see either one [family or horses] of them as much,” said Fike who drives in the WPCA. “My wife was holding down things at home, and the few chances I would get to see them they were sleeping, and it was too dark out to see the horses. I missed why we do this
54 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
sport, my family and my horses.” Four-time Calgary Stampede winner and World Champion Kurt Bensmiller (Dewberry, AB) said that one of the best things about the sport is watching his girls grow up in it. “It instills so many great traits in them. They learn the responsibility and work that it takes to care for the horses.” Bensmiller added that they also learn people skills by interacting with other drivers, families, and chuckwagon fans. With the average WPCA driver looking at around $100,000 a year in costs and
Shellie Scott Photography
Four-time Calgary Stampede winner and World Champion Kurt Bensmiller says that one of the best things about wagon driving is watching his children grow up in the sport. Unfortunately, 2020 has not afforded him that opportunity.
November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 55
Driver Jordie Fike had to find alternate work during the summer months to help support his families and feed his horses through the winter. He says he won’t be able to financially sustain two years in a row without racing.
associated fees, the career many choose because of their passion for animals and the sport comes with a hefty price tag. Drivers depend on the sponsorship money they get during the season, and any possible winnings they earn goes towards caring for the horses during the offseason. According to Fike, his family can’t financially sustain two years in a row without racing. “Even just to get the feed this winter is a stretch, and maybe putting us in a bit of a tight spot,” said Fike. “But we just can’t just can’t do this two years in a row.” Bensmiller adds that the loss of the season could change the landscape of wagon racing due to the possibility of drivers having to drop out because of the financial strain of 2020. Bensmiller said he thinks it will be the up-and-comers who survive these uncertain times. “It is the more established guys who I don’t think can weather another season without racing, the guys who are just starting out I think may have a better chance.” Bensmiller explains that drivers have a lot of money put into their chuckwagon racing outfits, and a lot of the investments they make are chuckwagon racing specific, and the sport’s revenue and value aren’t 56 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
just in the Thoroughbreds that pull the wagon – but the wagons themselves. A new wagon can cost a driver up to $20,000 and without wagon racing or somewhere to run wagons, all of that equipment and the investment drivers have made in the sport and their barns become obsolete. Things like a driver’s trailer, their wagon, and other pieces of tack are created and designed specifically for the wagons. You could say the same about many of the horses. While there are other opportunities out there as polo horses or jumpers, most of these equine athletes’ job and purpose is to be hooked up with three other horses to a wagon, competing with their friends on the racetrack. For example, Bensmiller’s good right leader – who has led him to multiple victories – worth lies within the racing community; he doesn’t have the same value outside of the community because he isn’t a horse that you can saddle up and ride. Bensmiller explains that this horse’s job and purpose is to pull a wagon, it is a job that he loves, and when his career is over, he will be retired on his family’s property to live out the rest of his days. Finding a horse’s place on a chuckwagon
team means that the drivers and their families need to spend time with the horses. It’s working with them as often as possible for some drivers, while for others like Fike, it means pail feeding them every day. “A guy gets caught up in his daily routine in the winter, and he might miss something. It is a reason to get close to them and feed them a pail of oats every day.” He explained that going out into the field and feeding them directly allows him to see the horses, how they interact and get an idea of where they should go on the wagon. He said that it also allows him to see how the new horses get along with the veterans, learn their personalities, and make sure they are healthy and safe. For most drivers, autumn is when they would be horse shopping at Thoroughbred racetracks across North America. It allows them to fill any holes they have in their roster at the time and think about the next year. With the way the current wagon landscape is though, most – if not all – drivers are opting out of horse shopping this fall, choosing instead to focus on their existing team. Bensmiller said this is the first time in his career that he isn’t shopping for horses.
“Most years, I bring back a trailer load full of horses, but with the questions that are still in the air, it just didn’t make much sense this year,” said Bensmiller.
EMBRACING AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE
The loss of the 2020 season, while causing some strain financially on drivers and some changes in the sports landscape, also gives the sport a chance to reach a new demographic and evolve while staying true to its heritage. “Any sport has to keep up with the world, and the way the world was changing, we have to modernize our sport,” Fike said. Over the past 20 years, there have been multiple changes made in the sport; from eliminating the tent posts and going from four outriders to two in shows like the Calgary and Ponoka Stampede’s, to updates in horse care and safety protocols. Animal care and safety are top of mind for the drivers, their families, and all involved in the different associations. In September, the Calgary Stampede announced the changes they were making to the Rangeland Derby in 2021. These changes included going from four drivers per heat down to three, dropping the invite list from 36 drivers down to 27 – cutting nine eligibility spots. The Stampede is also adding a collapsible arm to the inside rail. In their press release, the Stampede said that these changes are for the safety and betterment of the sport. Another change made is that WPCA drivers will be the only ones competing at the Stampede come 2022. That decision has been the subject of scrutiny online, but both Fike and Bensmiller stress that the important thing is that all three associations are healthy and thriving. Fike and Bensmiller have ties to the CPCA, with Bensmiller being a CPCA baby (his father and grandfather both competed in the association), and Fike starting his CPCA career there. Associations like the WCA and the CPCA allow new drivers to begin their careers and compete while also giving them a chance to work during the week because travel in both those associations is less than the travel that in the WPCA. “I didn’t have the horsepower in the barn when I first started racing, but I was able to build up my barn in my years on the CPCA,” said Fike. “When the time came, I was ready to compete in the WPCA.”
Kurt Bensmiller (left) and Jordie Like (right) are competitors on the track and friends in real life. Looking at the WPCA roster, close to 90% of the drivers now racing in the Worlds started their careers or spent time in the other two associations. During a regular season, the drivers in the WPCA racing close 50 nights from June to August, with travel in B.C., Alberta, and Saskatchewan. In comparison, drivers in the WCA run around 20 nights during the summer and travel within Northern Alberta and BC. Finally, drivers in the CPCA run approximately 30 nights during the summer and travel around central Alberta and Saskatchewan. Making a move to the WPCA for some isn’t feasible or possible at this time, but that doesn’t mean they don’t love the sport and aren’t competitive, they are simply focused on what is best for their families and their horses. No matter what association a driver is competing in, a constant is the need to connect with fans. Chuckwagon racing is unique because the horses are the show’s stars that people are coming to see. A wagon would not go around the track without the four equine athletes pulling it, so with that being said, the sport is working on their connection with fans. “We aren’t like other sports where you come off the track and can go to the concourse and interact with fans right after the races,” Bensmiller said. “The number one
priority is the horses, and once we are done on the track, our focus is shifted to cooling the horses down and taking care of them.” Bensmiller explains that while some drivers and their families have one or two employees come down the road with them, that doesn’t mean they get to pass the horses off. Drivers are hands-on with horse care from morning chores to evening feed. This cuts back on their ability to interact with fans and the public. Fans don’t get to see the work and the horsemanship that goes on behind the scenes in the barns. The use of social media is bridging that gap. Even with the cancellation of all sanctioned events in 2020, a charity Fun Run took place in Saskatchewan and Dewberry, Alberta, this year following each governments’ COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions. Drivers from the WPCA and CPCA competed in the races. However, it wasn’t just the drivers who showed up to these events – the fans came out as well. The number of fans who showed up to watch the at-a-distance shows the love for the sport is there, and the support is too. As we head towards the 2021 races, there are plenty of questions in the air, but the one constant is the love that drivers, families, friends and fans have for the equine athletes that make up the sport.
November/December 2020 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 57
THE BACK FORTY
Billy. This thing between us began as pure love. We met and I was knocked sideways by the force of Billy’s personality. When I first brought him home, our herd silently parted like a pool of water while the cocky horse waded right through. They knew something I did not. Thus, Billy became the boss hoss and all the while, he was smiling. Story and Photos By Lee McLean
Riding Billy was euphoric. A small
dynamo, he was as handy as a deep pocket. Full of energy, the little bay could work for hours. Never had I been on such a horse to sort cattle. Sweeping left, then right, a gathering move, heading up a pushy cow, everything was effortless. I grew used to being ‘the gate man’ no matter where we’d ride. Yes, it felt good to be this ageing ranch wife, handling this horse in a land of Marlboro men. They, who still call the shots, so grudging with their respect. Mike started hauling Billy to brandings. I’d watch the trailer leave with my new horse, proud and hurt, all at once. They’d return home, tired but happy, Billy working like a machine and Mike missing very few loops. Then, one night, a change. “He bucked me off in the branding pen,” said my sheepish husband. This, for the uninitiated, is the cardinal sin in a good ranch horse. Branding pens are crowded, bustling places for the serious business of vaccinating, castrating and recording the year’s calves. People are rushing around on foot, there are ropes between horses and cattle, along with all that represents one family’s livelihood. Bottom line, bucking is not allowed.
Excuses were made. Perhaps the rope came hard across Billy’s hip, or under his tail. Perhaps he was just sore from a long season. Life went on. I forgave and forgot. Our immediate family kept a small herd of our own cows separate from those of the main ranch, a sort of savings account. One June evening, we were down at the pen beside the creek, our cows gathered and bawling, the
calves healthy and ready to treat. I remember smiling as my daughter prepared to do the roping on Billy. She would heel the calves, while the rest of us would wrestle, brand, castrate, vaccinate and put in ear tags. We made for a small but efficient crew.
All went well until the last calf.
He was duly roped, the dallies were made and my daughter reined back toward the wrestlers. Without warning, Billy blew apart at the seams. After losing his rider, he bucked overtop my two sons who were down holding another calf, then he knocked over the branding pot that held the fire. At one point, all three of my grown children were lying about the pen, hurt, stunned, while the rest of us raced to stomp the spreading flames. All of this, while avoiding the violently bucking horse. Luckily, our injuries were minor – bruises noted, tried gingerly, joked about, shaken off.
Excuses were made. Perhaps the rope… perhaps he was sore… perhaps. I made things right by taking much of the blame. My family began to voice their doubts about my new horse. Discussions were held, though I refused to listen. I felt that Billy was genuinely sorry whenever he lost control. Strangely, he himself, was never frightened or upset by his outbursts. It was as if I had two different horses. He’d be lovely for months on end, kind and affectionate and my word, could he perform. Despite these foibles, I never felt unsafe with him. Rather than focus on problems, my mind would stick resolutely to our good days. And so, another year passed, all the seasons
58 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW November/December 2020
made beautiful by riding a top horse. One golden evening, Billy and I pulled into our yard after a long day’s work at a neighbouring ranch. I greeted him happily as I swung open the stock trailer’s door. Usually, my horse will be hauling loose, turned around and watching me from the front, ready to be asked to unload. But not this time.
Billy stood as in a trance, his head to the far corner of the trailer, unmoving.
I waited and called out to him, “Hey, buddy. It’s time to go have a roll.” Nothing. No blinking, no breathing, a horse carved of stone. Without thinking, I walked in and put my hand on his shoulder. I remember hearing the sound of the trailer door swinging closed behind me, the ‘snick’ of the latch clicking shut. Billy woke up. Suddenly, my horse was a stranger, a panicked whirlwind of hooves and flying snot. In his nightmare, he seemed to be drowning. Survival meant climbing onto the only solid thing he could find. Me. As long as I live, I’ll not forget the crashing and sparking of his shod hooves on the walls of the trailer. The bouncing of the floor, the banging of his head on the metal roof and the jingling tie rings, as I tried to stay at his hip, away from those lethal front feet. I made it to the bulkhead of the divider, a mere six inches of aluminum, to escape the worst of his blows. I knew that the big door was firmly shut behind me, a good eight feet from where I stood. Could I make it all the way to the back corner and the door latch? Would my fingers remember how the slammer worked in that last moment before my horse took my life? In the middle of this panic was a calm sense of knowing that I was done for. I was alone with my killer and nobody would be coming to save me. In the end, I made a rush for the door at the same time Billy landed on his halter shank. It was the two-second pause that I needed. I threw open the door and fell backwards onto the ground, my stomach heaving with the sickness that comes after adrenaline’s rush.
There was silence in the trailer, some heavy breathing, one quiet footstep... and then, another. Billy’s sweet face peered out at me, a hank of black hair shading his eyes. “What are you doing down there?” he asked. With a shock, I realized that once again, he continued on page 48
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