Rolanda Tremblay of Windsor was front and centre near the fence and able to meet RCMP horse ‘Hayden’ up close and personal. Rolanda made the trip to see the Musical Ride and said she’s enjoyed them for years. She was very excited to meet Hayden.
SUN photo

Musical Ride brings smiles to many faces

The Leamington Fairgrounds was the scene of a lot of horseplay this past weekend as the RCMP Musical Ride made their way to Leamington for shows on Friday, September 15 and Saturday, September 16.

The Musical Ride is celebrating their 150^th anniversary this year and the famous uniquely Canadian show did not disappoint the fans who attended three shows over the weekend.

Each show kicked off with performances by Lazee G Ranch of Windsor showcasing their western riding techniques, followed by Off Kilter Equine Entertainment trick riders and thrill show.

Then, as the RCMP horses and riders made their way to the front of the grandstand, they saluted special guest Robert ‘Shorty’ Wallace, a 91-year-old veteran of the Korean War and long-time member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 324 in Wheatley.

Shorty was moved each and every time by the respect shown to him by the RCMP and other members of the crowd who stopped to offer their thanks for his service.

He was asked for his permission for each show to begin, to which he responded with a hardy “Let’s get it!” , followed by a salute.

Those in attendance were in for a treat with the riders performing many of their manoeuvres — all to Canadian music.

Patrons were able to meet the horses in front of the grandstand after the show and were also able to tour the stables and talk to the officers.

The show was hosted by the Leamington District Agricultural Society, which has hosted the Musical Ride on a few occasions over the years — the last being in 2018.