ALBERTA HORSEMANSHIP

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Alberta Horsemanship 09-13 June 2025 is now open. The application deadline is 18 May 25.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT: 
Soldier On in collaboration with Moose Mountain Adventures will host a 3 day horsemanship event, located in the beautiful foothills (Bragg Creek, AB).   You will be assigned a horse, and spend the week learning grooming, saddling and riding your new friend. Each day will involve riding out in nature, culminating in a full day ride in the Rockies. All equipment is provided by the host (including helmets which are mandatory as well). Evenings will be spent in the comfortable lodge nestled in the rolling Alberta foothills. Relax after a day of riding and connect with your fellow Soldier On members at dinner or around the campfire.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 7

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) located in the Alberta or Northern Canada region who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

09 June 25:   Morning road move to Bragg Creek, AB from 3 CDSB Edmonton in 8 pax van (depending on where you live) members residing closer to Calgary would take their POMV, settle into guest house and supper.  

10 June 25:  You’ll spend Tuesday morning learning grooming, saddling and developing basic riding skills. That afternoon we’ll go for a 2-3 hour ride on the ranch.

11 June 25:  Wednesday we will pack our lunches in saddle bags and go for a longer ride, departing directly from the ranch at about 10:30, returning around 15:00.

12 June 25:   Thursday we load the horses in the trailers and head into Kananaskis and do a full day ride in the mountains, crossing rivers and streams. This would be a 5-6 hour ride, including short breaks roughly every hour and lunch.

13 June 25:  Breakfast/departures 

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Travel assistance will be provided and coordinated by the Soldier On Regional Coordinator in conjunction with Soldier On Operations. The most economical means of transportation to and from events will be prioritized and discussed with members via the event OPI or delegate.

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Participants must weigh under 250 lbs (As per regulations from the Sport Provider for the horse’s safety) and be able to walk and maneuver in and around horses and mount a horse with little to no assistance. Participants must wear an approved helmet when on a horse at all times, and be able to tolerate 5-6 hours of moderate paced activities for 3 days in a row. Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day.

Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment. Applicants agree that there will be no alcohol permitted in accommodations and that accommodations may be shared.