By Carol Mackay 

Mounted archery was once the battlefield skill of warriors from the Mongols to the Turks, though it faded from military use after the 17th century when firearms became prevalent. Indigenous Peoples living on the plains once used bows and arrows to hunt buffalo before the introduction of shotguns. Yet the popularity of mounted archery has never disappeared.  

During the late 20th century, this ancient skill was reborn as a sport, fueled by a growing passion for reconnecting with history, nature, and a deepening partnership between horse and rider. Mounted archery is the legacy sport where history and adrenaline meet. 

Agile, strong, and sure-footed, the Canadian Horse (Le Cheval Canadien) is a natural fit for competitive activities where endurance and intelligence are essential traits. Versatile by nature, this breed excels across many equestrian sports bringing power, balance, and spirit to every ride. 

“All of our full-sized horses are Canadians; they tackle the track with grace and confidence. We compete annually at Seawards Horse Archers Club, NS, founded by Lance Bishop,” says Emma Latto. Pictured is Latto of Iron Archers Club, PEI, riding Hidden Meadow Neirin Xanthus. Photos (above/below): Brynn Photo 

From the 1990s onward, the popularity of mounted archery spread across Europe, North America, and beyond, uniting people of all ages in a shared love of speed, precision, and tradition. Fast-forward to 2025 and we see a thriving global movement — international competitions, dedicated schools, and vibrant communities that celebrate the challenge of hitting a target while doing so at full speed. Can you imagine galloping reinless with bow and arrow in hand whilst aiming at a stationary board? 

Today, with declining live births, the Canadian Horse breed is in danger of becoming extinct so it behooves us all — riders, breeders, and enthusiasts alike — to boost the popularity of this heritage breed so it can flourish for generations to come.  

Kimberley Beldam, an accomplished mounted archer, runs the Heritage Stone Farm in upper New York State and competes with her Canadian Horses, Xcellence and Patriote.  

Cheval Canadien gelding Canadream Alex Xcellence and Canadian rider/owner Kimberley Beldam showing off the surefootedness of the Canadian Horse in the snow while practicing mounted archery at home. Photo: Bryan Saylor 

“Canadians are ideal candidates for the sport because they’re unflappable, have steady gaits, and are easy to handle,” says Beldam. “Archery horses do not need to be racetrack fast, but they do need to be nimble and able to notch up their speed on demand. Anyone selecting a mount for this discipline should seek out a horse with a balanced, smooth canter and the ability to dial it up whenever asked. Canadians love the challenge!  

“Canadians learn fast,” says Emma Latto. “Their thoughtful minds and strength make them excellent teammates.” Latto of Iron Archers Club, PEI, is pictured with Hidden Meadow Neirin Xanthus.  Photo: Brynn Photo 

“In my opinion,” adds Beldam, “a calm Canadian with an adjustable/rateable canter is an ideal choice for the archery track.” 

Want to find out more about this adrenaline-driven sport? You can catch Beldam demonstrating her mounted archery skills at Equine Affaire, Massachusetts, USA; the show opens November 6-9, 2025. For further information, visit Equine Affaire.  

This Spotlight on Canada’s heritage horse is brought to you by the Canadian Horse Heritage and Preservation Society. Interested to learn more? Contact us at Canadian Horse Heritage & Preservation Society (CHHAPS) or follow us on Facebook.

Main Photo: Cheval Canadien gelding Saguenay Eve Yukon Jospatriote and Canadian rider/owner Kimberley Beldam compete in mounted archery at the open level in the US. Credit: Greg Beldam