Horse show pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee

A horse show to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s historic run on the throne will be held next month in Armstrong.

The Armstrong Regional Co-op and the Okanagan Military Tattoo Society are presenting “Soldiers of the Queen,” an equestrian spectacular at the Armstrong Fairgrounds on May 26 at 7 p.m.

Lord Strathcona’s Horse Mounted Troop from CFB Edmonton will be performing in Armstrong May 26. (Submitted photo/Okanagan Military Tattoo)

The event will feature a musical ride and traditional cavalry drills performed by the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) Mounted Troop from CFB Edmonton, as well as other performers and musicians.

“Everyone knows that Queen Elizabeth is a horse lover,” said Derek Hall from the Military Tattoo organizing committee. “Elizabeth, the longest reigning monarch in British history, ascended the throne on February 6, 1952 upon the death of her father, King George VI.”

Hall said that’s the date when Elizabeth also became Queen of Canada.

“It therefore seems fitting that a horse show would be a most appropriate way to celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee and honour her service as Canada’s head of state for almost half of the history of this country.”

The mounted troop is designed to be a link to the regiment’s time as a cavalry unit in the early 20th century. The first members of the regiment were trained horsemen who were recruited to serve as a match for the Boers in South Africa. The regiment also served with distinction in the First World War as part of the Canadian Cavalry Brigade.

The public is invited to meet the performers at the fair grounds prior to the Thursday evening show and organizers are hoping that local schools will be able to attend to meet the soldiers and gain an understanding of Canada’s proud military history and traditions.

Tickets are now on sale at Ticket Seller in Vernon, all Armstrong Regional Co-op Gas Bars, and in Armstrong at the IPE Office, the Chamber of Commerce and the Royal Canadian Legion.

Tickets cost $25 for adults and for youth 18 and under. Youth 18 and under get in free with the purchase of a regular priced ticket.

All proceeds from the event will go to veterans’ charities.

A second show may be held on May 27 if ticket sales exceed expectations.