Come enjoy down-home Alberta hospitality in the scenic foothills of the Rocky Mountains, July 30–August 4, 2008. Alberta has been selected by CaLDRA and Endurance Canada to host the 2008 Competitive Trail, Endurance and Ride N’ Tie Canadian National Championships.

This multi-day equine event will be held at the beautiful Red Deer River Ranches near Sundre, Alberta. The ranch boasts 1,000 acres of private land that is directly connected to over 50,000 acres of grazing lease. The majority of the land is open forest/range-land. There are numerous creeks to cross and ride along. Trails consist of open terrain, heavily wooded areas, logging routes and wildlife paths in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies. This area is also known for its population of wild horses. Truly a ‘wild west’ location!

In addition to the national competitions, gorgeous scenery, ample camping space, catering, and souvenirs, many other family friendly activities will be made available. Amenities such as grocery, gas, restaurants, tourist attractions, hospital, etc. are located nearby in the town of Sundre. The community is warmly opening their arms to our Nationals visitors.

While there will be Provincial Team competitions (you will need to nominate you and your horse to your regional riding club), there is opportunity to ride as an individual in a variety of categories:

Competitive Trail
– Novice Division 25 mile
– Intermediate Division 40 mile
– Open Division 80 miles over two days. Day one is pending as an AHA 40-mile ride.

Endurance (pending AERC sanctioning)
– 25 mile
– 50-mile FEI** including junior and young riders. Pending as an AHA ride.
– 100-mile FEI*** including junior and young riders

Ride N’ Tie:
– 10 mile
– 20 mile

Special Feature Competition—a relay race that is still in the works will resemble the Pony Express.

We also look forward to welcoming individuals who will be able to offer their time and expertise in volunteering for this event.

There will be opening and closing ceremonies, including a dinner and awards banquet, all which are guaranteed to be very memorable. We promise an entertaining and exhilarating week of celebration.

Keep your eyes open for the launch of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Challenge website at www.canadiannationals.org, which will keep you informed of schedule of events, attractions, accommodations, etc., closer to the date of the Nationals. In the meantime, feel free to contact Sandra Nielsen at (403) 637-0245 or e-mail (a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected] with any questions.