History & Heritage

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Northern Dancer was an extraordinary horse who captured Canada’s spirit and inspired immense national pride. Northern Dancer, whose heart and spirit transcended his size, remains one of the greatest Thoroughbreds in history — a legend whose legacy continues to inspire generations.

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In 2017, we celebrated Canada’s 150th anniversary with stories of 20 exceptional horses that have reflected our values and fired our national pride. One of those horses was Big Ben.

Importance of horse show volunteers, horse show volunteer Barbara Jackson, Canadian Sport Horse Association volunteering, unsung horse show heroes, Canadian horse woman Barbara Jackson

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a horse show — the impeccably groomed horses, the polished riders, the vibrant atmosphere, the thrill of victory. A ribbon passed from one hand to another becomes a shining testament to hours of dedication, passion, and commitment. Amidst the buzz, it might also be easy to overlook the lady holding the basket of ribbons, who is smiling ear to ear as she celebrates your victory. You might not realize that it is her victory, too.

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Some watch the Super Bowl for football; some for the commercials. The big game is famous for its creative, cinematic ads, the kind that might make you laugh — or cry. Super Bowl ads “tap into our deepest psychology when it comes to entertainment,” says Psychology Today. Naturally, advertisers hope their commercials will also tap into consumers’ bank accounts, given that the broadcast has a massive reach — in 2024 over 123 million people tuned in.

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It’s sometimes called an “equestrian palace,” and the nickname is no exaggeration. The first glimpse of the Grandes Écuries (Great Stables) in Chantilly, France is truly jaw-dropping. To see for yourself, take a 30-minute train ride from Paris to Chantilly, home of famous lace, cream and horses — some consider the town France’s “capital city of the horse.” Next, walk through a woods so peaceful it feels like something out of a fairy tale. When you reach the end of the path you’ll be at the edge of a grassy racecourse. Gaze across the track; et voilà, that stunning view.

Clever Hans, Wilhelm von Osten, Carl Stumpf, Clever Hans Effect

In the late 19th century, a remarkable Orlov Trotter named Clever Hans captivated the equine world with his alleged ability to perform complex intellectual tasks. Owned and trained by Wilhelm von Osten—a German mathematics teacher and part-time horse trainer—Hans was said to demonstrate extraordinary cognitive skills uncommon in horses. According to von Osten, the horse could add, subtract, multiply, divide, solve fractions, tell time, read words and numbers, spell, and even comprehend spoken and written German. When prompted with questions, Hans responded by tapping his hoof to indicate his answers.

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Equestrians worldwide are exploring innovative ways to enjoy their horses, and Canada is no exception. So, if you want to rev up your riding or support a new sport, consider shooting arrows, slashing swords, swinging lances, blasting guns, training fancy footwork, or galloping through the snow.

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This is the story of a petite pack horse named Sargeant Reckless, who eventually earned an official title in the U.S. Marine Corps. Originally intended to haul equipment and ammunition in the 5th Marine Regiment’s Recoilless Rifle Platoon, Sargeant Reckless was bought in October 1952 for $250 at the age of three or four years old.

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Horses have played a crucial role in shaping human history, from their use in agriculture and transportation to their significance in warfare, sport, and culture. Across the world, museums dedicated to these majestic animals showcase not only their historical importance but also the people who have worked alongside them, fostering deep and enduring bonds.

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The bond between horses and humans in Canada is both profound and timeless, with a history that stretches back centuries. To fully appreciate the role horses play in our lives today, we must first explore the rich history that has shaped their presence in our country.

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