COLUMN: On the Fence Line – Elevating the equestrian: Building a better future for horses and riders

A healthy equestrian community takes more than good riding skills. It depends on understanding our horses, supporting one another, managing stress and creating barn and competition environments where everyone feels safe and respected.

On Nov. 7, equine owners, riders, coaches, boarders, parents and others in Manitoba’s horse community are invited to Elevating the Equestrian at Sport Manitoba in Winnipeg. This special event combines an afternoon of expert presentations with an evening keynote and celebration, offering practical knowledge to improve both equestrian experiences and community culture.

The afternoon program runs from 12:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. and covers topics including recognizing toxic barn culture, preparing for infectious disease outbreaks, communicating more effectively with horses, navigating perimenopause and managing nerves and emotions.

Presenters bring expertise in equine behaviour, veterinary medicine, sport psychology and stress management. Speakers include equine behaviour specialist and judge Lindsay Grice; veterinarian and equine surgeon Dr. Chris Bell; veterinary behaviour specialist Dr. Karen Machin; psychologist and performance expert Dr. Lindsay Arnal Wishnowski; and somatic practitioner Joy Onyschak.

An evening focused on meaningful change

The evening keynote, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., features Allison Forsyth, a two-time Olympian, eight-time Canadian alpine skiing champion and safe sport advocate. Drawing on her lived experience and work addressing maltreatment in sport, Forsyth will lead a conversation about transforming barn culture, competitions and equestrian experiences.

Her message is relevant across all sports: lasting change requires more than policies. It takes awareness, accountability and practical action to create environments where horses, riders, coaches, boarders and families can thrive.

Elevating the Equestrian offers an opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, connect with others who care about horses and consider how everyday actions can strengthen Manitoba’s equestrian community.

Event details

Nov. 7 at Sport Manitoba, Winnipeg.

Afternoon presentations run from 12:30 to 4:45 p.m., followed by the evening keynote and celebration from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Each attendee must register individually.

Visit manitobahorsecouncil.ca/ElevatingEquestrianElevating for details.

Manitoba Horse Council membership renewals coming up

As the new year approaches, it’s also a good time for MHC members to start thinking about membership renewals. Your membership offers connections to the equestrian community and includes valuable insurance coverage that can provide added peace of mind while enjoying your equestrian activities. Your support helps MHC continue its work on behalf of horses and horse people across the province. Learn more about membership benefits, insurance coverage and renewals at ManitobaHorseCouncil.ca/Membership-Information.

Since 1974, the Manitoba Horse Council has been dedicated to supporting horse owners, riders, and equestrian organizations across Manitoba. To learn more about membership, education and member benefits, visit www.manitobahorsecouncil.ca.