If anyone in your family is a horse lover or you are looking for something unique to do in support of a worthy cause, head to Arbutus Meadows in Nanoose Bay Saturday, May 5 as Vancouver Island’s Hope for Horses Society presents its annual Island Equine Affair.
Based on education and awareness, the second annual Island Equine Affair will feature demonstrations, exhibitions, clinicians and more.
The Hope for Horses Society is a non-profit organization that was founded on Vancouver Island, but which contains board members across British Columbia.
The society’s sole purpose is to raise and distribute funds which will provide aid to abused and starving equines in need including donkeys and mules.
The goal is to provide a fund which reputable organizations such as the BC SPCA can apply for money to provide emergency and short-term care for animals in need.
Through fundraising events such as the Equine Affair, the group can assist with essentials such as veterinary care, farrier and training services to allow these animals a much deserved second chance at a healthier life and forever home.
The vision for the Island Equine Affair caters to not only the most experienced of equestrians, but to families that contain horse-crazy enthusiasts who dream of one day owning their own steed.
The goal of the society, say organiers, is to make the Island Equine Affair Vancouver Island’s premier equestrian event of its kind in years to come.
The day will be educational, informative, entertaining and fun for the whole family with clinics and demonstrations put on by reigning champion Doug Mills, classical dressage trainer, Bergi Rommel, hunter/jumper coach and clinician, Bridget Flynn, and other noted local equestrian clinicians including Adiva Murphy, Trish Hyatt, Ashley Roe and many more.
There will also be an equine trade fair, an all breed horse extravaganza from 6 to 9 p.m. and action-packed demonstrations, including carriage and driving teams, hunter/jumping, dancing with horses — dressage, and dog agility.
The affair runs from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Admission is $10 with seniors and children under 12 free.