Being rather fond of horses I make a point of experiencing the local equestrian scene, if there is one, wherever I travel. When I’m in Alberta this means a pilgrimage, if you will, to the mecca of Canadian show jumping, Spruce Meadows.

Spruce Meadows is a world-class equestrian competition site located south-west of Calgary and geared specifically to the exciting and skill-testing sport of show jumping. During the competition season, which runs spring through fall, the venue, hailed as one of the finest in the world, attracts the best horse and rider combinations from around the globe to compete for top prize money and the prestige of being ranked among the top competitors in the sport.

Founded by Marg and Ron Southern, Spruce Meadows sits on 400 beautiful acres and was officially opened in April 1975. Since then it has attracted millions of visitors, in part because of its goal to offer affordable family fun. It’s not unusual to see parents and children enjoying the beautiful grounds and exhibits, and participating in activities like the annual “Name the Foal” contest, which is associated with Spruce Meadows’ active and respected Hanoverian breeding program.

My needs are simple. I just want to see the beautiful horses and check out the tack shop and other shopping opportunities — maybe I can add to my barn jacket or fleecy collection. And, of course, I take out my camera and capture whatever catches my eye.

Packed stands in the International Ring on a Sunday afternoon during the 2011 National tournament, June 2011.

A horse and rider (whose names escape me, sadly) tackle the Derby bank leading to the jump in the image below.

Thanks for visiting …

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