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After spending a long afternoon and evening at Niagara Falls, the Youth World Cup participants were up bright and early again on Tuesday, July 8, for another set of clinics. On tap today were western riding, western pleasure and trail. After the clinics, the riders had just enough time to put up their horses and come back to the arena to watch the Royal Canadian Mounted Police perform their musical drill. To learn more about the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, click here. Royal Canadian Mounted Police Facts: - The Royal Canadian Mounted Police were formed in 1873, and in 1874 the RCMP created the spectacle known as "The Musical Ride."
- In keeping with tradition, 32 riders and horses, as well as a member in charge, make up The Ride.
- The RCMP developed their own breeding program for the horses they ride. The horses are predominantly Thoroughbreds, but in 1989, black Hanoverian broodmares and stallions were purchased to further supplement and improve stock bloodlines.
- The horses are trained based on classic riding and basic training takes about 2 1/2 years. The horses are exposed to a variety of situations to ensure safe behavior at all times, especially during The Ride.
- The members of The Musical Ride are dedicated police officers who, after at least two years of active service, volunteer for duty with The Ride. Most members are non-riders prior to their equestrian training with the RCMP.
- Every year, about 800 officers apply for The Ride but only 45 are chose to attend the five-week basic equitation course. During this time the individuals are evaluated.
- The RCMP's uniforms are called "the red serge," and the horses are called "black thunder."
Do you have a Youth World Cup story to share? Send an e-mail to Christine Hamilton or Tonya Ratliff-Garrison, the Journal's field editors in London for the show. |
Check out a recap of all the AQHA World Championship Shows! 2007 FORD AQHYA WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW 2007 BAYER SELECT AQHA WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW 2007 AQHA WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW 2008 FORT DODGE VERSATILITY RANCH HORSE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS |