ROYAL CANADIAN MOUNTED POLICE MUSICAL RIDE

This event was sponsored by the Cowichan Valley Community Policing Volunteer Organization and was
hosted by the Avalon Equestrian Centre. Beneficiaries of funds generated by the Musical Ride
performance are Cowichan Community Policing and Cowichan Search and Rescue.

The Musical Ride has been performing for Canadians since 1887. Over the years, the popularity of
the Musical Ride has grown and it has become a world renowned attraction. It has assisted thousands
of charities and non-profit organizations raise money to make a difference in their communities.

The RCMP Musical Ride is performed by a full troop of thirty-two riders and horses, plus the member
in charge. The Musical Ride consists of the execution of a variety of intricate figures and cavalry
drill choreographed to music.

The troop tours throughout Canada, as well as international venues, performing at approximately
forty to fifty locations a year between the months of May and October. Thirty-six riders, thirty-six
horses, a farrier, a technical production manager and three NCOs travel with the Musical Ride.

In mid August Cowichan Valley Community Policing asked if we, and Gail Robertson, would volunteer
to photograph the RCMP Musical Ride they were sponsoring. Of course we all jumped at the opportunity!
As community volunteers for the event each of us spent a lot of time preparing, shooting some 4000 images
between the three of us, then sorting/editing, and finally, displaying shots.

For more information on the background and history of the RCMP Musical Ride you may visit their website at:
http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/mr-ce/index-eng.htm