HCBC News for Autumn 2026

As we move into the fall season, Horse Council BC is celebrating several exciting milestones while looking ahead to opportunities to connect with members across the province.

A SUCCESSFUL AGM 

Our Annual General Meeting in June was a great success, with a strong turnout from members across BC. The AGM is a valuable opportunity to connect with our membership, celebrate the accomplishments of the past year, and share plans for the future.

This year’s meeting highlighted two significant initiatives: our move to a new office in Langley and the establishment of the HCBC Endowment Fund. Both represent important investments in the long-term future of Horse Council BC and the equestrian community we serve.

We are pleased to welcome Teresa Carosella, Kelsey McFarlane, Sharon Pickthorne, and Kersten Taylor onto the Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 term. We are especially excited to welcome Teresa and Kelsey as first-time directors and look forward to the perspectives and enthusiasm they will bring to the Board.

We would also like to thank Claire Vessey for her years of dedicated service and leadership. Her contributions have helped strengthen Horse Council BC and support equestrians throughout British Columbia.

OUR NEW HOME IN LANGLEY

This summer marked an exciting new chapter as Horse Council BC officially relocated to its new office at #102 – 8047 199th Street, Langley, BC V2Y 0E2

The move follows a member-supported decision to sell the Aldergrove property and establish the HCBC Endowment Fund, helping the organization with continued growth and sustainability.

A special thank you goes to our staff, whose hard work behind the scenes made the transition possible. From coordinating the physical move to managing phone and office systems, their dedication ensured smooth relocation. We also extend our appreciation to our members, supporters, and partners for their patience throughout the process. We look forward to welcoming visitors to our new home.

SEE YOU IN BARRIERE FOR THE 55+ BC GAMES

One of the highlights of the fall season for HCBC is the 55+ BC Games Equestrian Competition. Each year, the Games bring together riders, drivers, volunteers, officials, and supporters from across BC to celebrate active living, horsemanship, and lifelong participation in sport.

This year’s equestrian events will take place September 9-12, 1926, at the North Thompson Fall Fair & Rodeo grounds in Barriere, BC and will feature Dressage, Western Dressage, Driving Trials, Ranch Horse and Mountain Trail competitions.

In addition to competition, HCBC is pleased to offer educational opportunities alongside the Games, including clinics focused on Driving and Ranch Horse. Clinic participation is free for competitors entered in the 55+ Games Ranch Horse Competition, and $150 for all other participants. 

Clinic: Through the Eyes of a Driving Judge

• September 11–13, 2026 — North Thompson Fairgrounds 

This three day clinic is led by FEI 3* Driving Judge Francois Bergeron and offers a judge’s eye view of what defines a successful driving performance. Participants will gain practical insight into how performances are evaluated, what details matter most, and how to present an effective turnout.

Clinic: Through the Eyes of a Ranch Horse Judge

• September 11–13, 2026 — North Thompson Fairgrounds

Led by respected multi-carded judge Jodie Moore, this three-day clinic offers clear insight into what judges look for in ranch horse competition, including correctness, manoeuvre quality, authenticity, and overall presentation.

These programs provide valuable insight into judging, performance standards, and skill development while supporting the continued growth of equestrian sport in BC. 

Whether you are competing, volunteering, spectating, or cheering on friends and family, we look forward to seeing many familiar faces in Barriere this fall.

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL SEASON

As another year in the saddle comes to a close, it’s membership renewal season at Horse Council BC.

Renewing your HCBC membership is one of the simplest ways to support and strengthen BC’s equine industry. As the provincial organization for equestrian sport and recreation, HCBC advocates for horse owners, riders, drivers, facilities, coaches, officials, and recreational users across the province. Your membership helps support equine welfare initiatives, education, trail access, safety programs and a strong future for our industry.

Membership also includes valuable benefits such as liability insurance coverage, access to educational resources, optional insurance products, member discounts and opportunities to connect with BC’s diverse equestrian community.

On behalf of Horse Council BC, thank you to our members, partners and supporters for your continued commitment to the horses and horse people of BC. We wish you and your horses a safe, successful and enjoyable fall season.

Main Photo: PDreamstime/Ulrich Willmünder