Thousands attend RCMP Musical Ride at Maple Ridge fairgrounds

Thousands of people attended the RCMP Musical Ride at Maple Ridge’s Albion Fairgrounds on Aug. 12, as part of the 125th anniversary celebrations for the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Country Fest.

It is the fourth time the free community event has come to Maple Ridge. Sixteen mounted RCMP officers from across Canada performed precision formations and drills.

Maple Ridge Cpl. Amber Gambling, who has performed in the Ride with her horse Kasper, said the RCMP breeds its horses in Ottawa for temperament and colour. Riders train with their horses two hours a day, five days a week, from January until the first performances in late May.

The final show is scheduled for Aug. 13 at 23448 Jim Robson Way. A meet-and-greet runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the show begins at 6:30 p.m. The RCMP canine division will open the event. Parking is by cash donation, with a substantial portion of proceeds going to Alouette Men’s Shed.