The Canadian Supreme

Expect to see plenty of cowboy hats and spurs right now in Red Deer, as the Canadian Supreme, the largest cutting, reining and working cow horse event in the Pacific Northwest has filled every inch at Westerner Park for a full week of top level competition.

With nearly 500 horses entered, the city of Red Deer gets a big business boost from the participants and fans taking in the exciting action. This fall, the Supreme marks its 30th year in Red Deer.

“It’s our biggest horse event by far,” states Westerner General Manager John Harms. “We’re delighted to have worked with the organizers and watched this show grow over the many years.”

Calgary’s Dave Robson has served as chairman of the Supreme for 30 years of the show’s 37 year history.

“We are really trying to show the elite of the Western horse world,” says Robson. “I think we do that well.”

During the show, there are horses competing in both the Prairie Pavilion and the Agri-Centre. The featured Saturday night performance, the Cinch Night at the Supreme, is an ideal way to see a great variety of talented horses and riders in some of the most exciting classes. As well, there is the Western Lifestyle Marketplace, featuring all things equine, along with renowned western artists. It runs from the Thursday through the Saturday of the show. On the Friday night, the stands fill early for the Western Horse Sale, organized by Elaine Speight of Rocky Mountain House. The sale features select horses that range from prospects to competition-ready mounts.

With close to half a million dollars available in cash and prizes, the Supreme is the richest western horse event in Canada. It’s a reputation builder for superstar horses, but an important business event for horse trainers.

“A special treat this year will be an extra bonus for the twelve Canadian Supreme Futurity Class Champions,” said Robson. “They’ll each receive a limited edition framed Paul Van Ginkel giclee art print, valued at $950 along with the trophy buckles.”