Riding Legends Trade Hats, Horses for OVC Fundraiser
August 14, 2009 - News Release
High-profile riders from a variety of disciplines will be "changing reins" Aug. 27 for Equi-Challenge, a first-of-its-kind event in Canada that will benefit the Equine Sports Medicine and Reproduction Centre at the University of Guelph's Ontario Veterinary College.
The event will showcase the leaders and legends of the riding world competing in a unique team-style competition, with such match-ups as jockeys on show jumpers, dressage riders playing polo and show jumpers on western barrel racing horses. It will be held at the Iron Horse Farm in Caledon.
Leading the all-star lineup will be Ian Millar, the Canadian show jumping world champion and 2008 Olympic silver medallist. He’ll be joined by dressage Olympian Jackie Brooks, thoroughbred racing legend Sandy Hawley and other notable equestrians.
“At a time of extraordinary transformative change within OVC and the University, Equi-Challenge will provide tremendous visibility and support for equine health,” said OVC dean Elizabeth Stone.
A specialized facility for equine athletes, the Equine Sports Medicine and Reproduction Centre will offer direct access to top specialists in the field, advanced lameness evaluation and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. The reproduction facility will offer sophisticated reproductive services such as fertility evaluation, artificial insemination and embryo transfer.
Tickets for the Equi-Challenge are $175 each. The event will also include a chef-prepared barbecue of locally grown foods and musical performances. Guests will include luminaries from each of the sport disciplines: riders, owners, trainers, breeders and veterinary practitioners. Ticket information is available online, by e-mail, tickets@equichallenge.ca, or by calling 905 880-8053.
For media questions, contact Liz Shaughnessy, 905 880-8053 or liz@lizshaughnessy.com.
