REGION 1
Sara MacKenzie — Region 1 Director
On August 26, my horse (Jazz), my French Bull Dog (Duke), and I headed out on an eleven-day trip to the Cross-National Camp and Cup (CNC) in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada. From Washington, the drive takes 18+ hours and covers 1,000 miles each direction. For fun and safety, I caravaned with region 1 members Katie Stearns, Jenna Hill; and Ellis Oldenbloom (Netherland’s Junior Master’s Level Rider). We overnighted in Hamilton, Montana at Eve and Cody Deering’s ranch. They were generous, wonderful hosts!
We stayed in the States as long as possible for lower gas prices and crossed the border in Treelon, Canada – a quaint crossing in the middle of nowhere. Border travel information was difficult to find but the crossing was a breeze. (FYI: current Coggins and Canadian Health Certificate needed). The agent asked questions and stamped our paperwork. Coming home, the American agent was excited having never seen horses crossing through Treelon in his 17 years!
CNC training was excellent. Three mornings began with dressage. The presenters (9-10) had 4-5 riders across four large arenas. Each day had a focus – center lines, halts, leg yields, turn on the haunches, etc. Three afternoons were spent on obstacles and we rotated through different obstacles. Everyone came away with skills, understanding, and practical tips.
On the fourth day, Jill Barron and Randy DeDruyne coached us working cattle. Teams of four had an hour of coaching and a mock trial. The cattle were sticky, and we all got plenty of time moving and cutting.
By Friday, we were prepared for the Cup! Three arenas, 140 horse/rider pairs, 3 judges (Amy Star, Jill Barron, Doreen Atkinson), Levels 1-7 – all went smoothly. The hosts did their work generating sponsorship and prizes included supplements, embroidered, hand-made jackets, medals, ribbons, and more.
Working Equitation brings amazing humans and horses together. CNC was the epitome of that mantra. As I walked around, watching horses and humans interact, nothing was array. Twenty horses cantering in an arena – no problem! Wind blowing the Bull over as a rider tries to spear the ring – no issue. A tractor clearing the manure pile and big trucks backing up – all good. Just another day in the life of Working Equitation. The Camp and Cup experience allows time to make new friends and connect more deeply with old friends. This was one of the most special, well run, and beneficial events I have attended.