Some of the most robust and well-trained horses and most skillful drivers will be demonstrating their abilities on July 23 at the Verdant Valley Hall.
The Verdant Valley Agricultural Society has invited back teams and drivers for a chore horse competition. This event demonstrates the horse and driver’s ability to undertake chore tasks as they expertly navigate a course.
The Society brought in the event in 2016, but took a hiatus. The event returned last summer and saw about 300 come out to enjoy the show.
“There are somewhere between 10-12 teams which will be there with a range of drivers,” said Lynn Hemming of the Verdant Valley Ag Society.
They have invited teams and drivers from across the province. The sport brings a mix of young and old drivers commanding their teams.
“There are some young people from our community who are teamsters, as well veteran people as well as people from various parts of Alberta competing,” she said. “We had a lot of people last year who came for the first time, we hope some will return but is also exciting to welcome people who haven’t seen it.”
These are two-horse teams, typically Belgians, Percherons, thoroughbred crosses, and Clydesdales. They are taken through a course that emulates chores such as opening and closing gates, backing and hooking up loads and pulling through a course.
While it isn’t as fast-paced as some equine events, spectators are amazed at the abilities of the horse and driver to manoeuvre with such precision. They aim to complete the course in 15 minutes.
The event starts at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 23 at the Verdant Valley Hall on Highway 576 About 15 kilometres east of Drumheller. There is no charge to attend. Along with the Chore Horse competition, there will be a concession as well as activities for youngsters. Hemming says it is a family-friendly event, and to make sure you dress for the weather. There are some bleachers on site, but attendees are well-advised to bring lawn chairs. They ask that attendees not bring pets.
